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January 31, 2025Steve Wilks Joins New York Jets as Defensive Coordinator
The New York Jets have officially hired Steve Wilks as their new defensive coordinator under newly appointed head coach Aaron Glenn. Wilks, who has a long and respected coaching career in the NFL, is expected to bring leadership and experience to a Jets defense that struggled in the 2024 season.
The #Jets have agreed to terms with Steve Wilks as their defensive coordinator, per sources.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 29, 2025
After sitting out last season, Wilks — a longtime respected assistant and former #Cardinals head coach — now returns as a key figure on Aaron Glenn’s new staff in New York. pic.twitter.com/qfWtWdZU7E
Wilks’ Coaching Background
Steve Wilks has an extensive coaching resume, spanning multiple teams and positions in the NFL. He served as the Arizona Cardinals’ head coach in 2018, though his tenure lasted just one season. In 2022, he took over as the interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers, helping stabilize the team despite a challenging situation.
Wilks has also had successful stints as a defensive coordinator with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and most recently, the San Francisco 49ers. His defensive schemes have often emphasized aggressive play and strong secondary performance, which aligns well with the Jets’ current personnel.
Success with the San Francisco 49ers
In the 2023 season, Wilks served as the defensive coordinator for the 49ers, leading them to a Super Bowl appearance. Under his guidance, San Francisco’s defense ranked third in points allowed and eighth in total yards allowed, making them one of the most formidable units in the league. However, the 49ers fell short in the championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Despite the 49ers’ success, Wilks was let go following the season, opening the door for his move to New York.
What Wilks Brings to the Jets
The Jets finished the 2024 season with a 5-12 record, with their defense ranking 20th in points allowed. While the unit had talented players, inconsistency and a lack of depth contributed to their struggles.
With Aaron Glenn and Steve Wilks now leading the coaching staff, the Jets are aiming for a major defensive turnaround in 2025. Wilks’ ability to develop young defensive backs and his experience running high-level defenses should provide a significant boost to a team looking to regain competitiveness in the AFC East.
This hiring marks a crucial step in the Jets’ offseason, as they attempt to build a stronger, more disciplined defense under Wilks’ leadership.
