Steve Wilks Joins New York Jets as Defensive Coordinator: A New Era Begins
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets are making waves in the NFL coaching carousel, and the latest move is a significant one. Aaron Glenn, the newly appointed head coach of the Jets, has made his first major hire by bringing in Steve Wilks as the defensive coordinator. This news, reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, marks a pivotal moment for the Jets as they look to reshape their coaching staff and strategy.
Wilks, who is 55 years old, spent the 2024 season away from the NFL after a stint as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. His departure from the 49ers came shortly after their loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII, a decision that left many in the league surprised. However, his return to the NFL with the Jets is seen as a fresh start and a chance to bring his defensive expertise to a team eager for success.
For Aaron Glenn, this hire is crucial. At his introductory news conference, Glenn made it clear that he does not plan to call the defensive plays himself. “I want to be the best head coach you can find,” Glenn stated. “In order for me to do that, I think I need to manage the game.” This approach underscores the importance of having a seasoned defensive coordinator like Wilks, who can take the reins of the defense and allow Glenn to focus on the broader aspects of coaching.
Wilks’ previous head-coaching experience was a key factor in Glenn’s decision. Wilks had a challenging year as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 2018, finishing with a 3-13 record. He also served as the interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers in 2022. Despite these ups and downs, his experience is invaluable for Glenn, who is stepping into a head coaching role for the first time.
Interestingly, Wilks and Glenn have never worked together before. However, Glenn emphasized that he was looking for the best coach, regardless of prior connections. “I’m looking for the best coach,” Glenn said. “That’s all I’m looking for. He’s going to be compatible. And it doesn’t have to be from somebody I had; it can be from across the league. When I go through the interview process, everything is on the table and the best coaches will be here.”
Wilks will be taking over a defense that has been impressive in recent years, finishing in the top five in yards allowed for three consecutive seasons. However, the unit is facing significant changes, with ten of the Jets’ top 17 snap leaders eligible for free agency. This includes key players like cornerback D.J. Reed and middle linebacker Jamien Sherwood, making Wilks’ task even more challenging as he looks to maintain the defense’s high standards.
Wilks replaces Jeff Ulbrich, who served as the Jets’ defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2024 and was the interim head coach for the final 12 games of the 2024 season. Wilks’ experience, particularly in coaching the secondary, will be crucial as he looks to build on the foundation laid by Ulbrich.
During his time with the 49ers, Wilks faced some challenges. Under his predecessor, DeMeco Ryans, the 49ers’ defense led the NFL in several categories in 2022, including fewest points per game allowed (16.3) and defensive expected points added (89.58). However, the unit took a step back in 2023, finishing third in points allowed (17.5) and ninth in defensive EPA (41.48). The defense also struggled against the run in the playoffs, leading to Wilks’ departure. Niners coach Kyle Shanahan explained the decision by saying, “it just ended up not being the right fit. And it hurt for me to do this, but that’s exactly why I had to.”
With 16 seasons of NFL coaching experience across six different teams, Wilks brings a wealth of knowledge to the Jets. His previous role as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns in 2019 adds to his extensive resume.
Meanwhile, Glenn is also close to finalizing other key positions on his staff. Reports suggest that Chris Banjo is set to become the special teams coordinator, having previously served as the assistant special teams coach for the Denver Broncos. Additionally, Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden is expected to join as the offensive-line coach. The Jets are also in talks with Lions passing-game coordinator Tanner Engstrand for the offensive-coordinator position.
- Steve Wilks joins the Jets as defensive coordinator.
- Aaron Glenn focuses on managing the game as head coach.
- Wilks brings 16 seasons of NFL coaching experience.
- Significant personnel changes expected in the Jets’ defense.
- Chris Banjo and Steve Heiden likely to join the coaching staff.
As the Jets continue to build their coaching staff, the addition of Steve Wilks is a promising step towards a new era for the team. With Glenn at the helm and Wilks leading the defense, the Jets are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season.
Originally Written by: Rich Cimini
