Former Panthers Coach Steve Wilks Fired by San Francisco
A little over one year after being handed his walking papers by the Carolina Panthers, Steve Wilks was dismissed by the San Francisco 49ers. Head coach Kyle Shanahan announced the news at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.
When a team loses the Super Bowl, change is inevitable. That change traditionally comes from opposing teams poaching coordinators and position coaches for jobs that deliver upward mobility. Unfortunately for Wilks, the change in San Francisco means he will be looking for a job.
The former Panthers' interim head coach led the 49ers defense to a top five finish in points allowed and DVOA. San Francisco boasts a loaded defense from front to back, but Wilks did a good job scheming around injuries at key positions.
Fans and former players alike were calling for Wilks to be promoted to the full-time head coach in Carolina last offseason. Wilks, a Charlotte native, took over after Matt Rhule's midseason firing and led Carolina to a 6-6 record and a near playoff berth. Carolina decided to move on from Wilks and hire Frank Reich who was fired midway through his maiden season in Carolina.
Wilks will be a hot commodity across the league for a number of roles, and it would be shocking if he doesn't land on his feet sooner rather than later.
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