Getty Image / Icon Sportswire
The San Francisco 49ers have been searching for a new defensive coordinator after Demeco Ryans left for the Houston Texans’ head coaching job.
This is a massive move for the franchise, as the team is able to bring in somebody with head coaching experience to lead the way on defense.
According to Jonathan Jones, the 49ers are expected to hire Steve Wilks as the new defensive coordinator.
The 49ers plan to hire former Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilks as their new defensive coordinator, source confirms NFL Network report.
The last two 49ers defensive coordinators have gone on to head-coaching roles.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) February 7, 2023
As Jones points out, the last two DCs in San Francisco have left for head coaching gigs. Those being Robert Saleh and Demeco Ryans.
Wilks has plenty of experience as a defensive coordinator and should do well coaching up the 49ers’ stacked roster.
Now, the Panthers weren’t the best team in the league. However, that defense was incredibly underrated throughout the 2022 season.
We see it all the time. Bad teams have good defenses. Just look at the Denver Broncos as the prime example.
So now, Steve Wilks will be coaching what is arguably the best defense in the league. After showcasing his skillset in Carolina, 49ers fans should be excited about this hire.
We should likely see the offense remain successful. Albeit, there are some questions regarding the quarterback position.
In the end, though, the 49ers’ defense should remain dominant with Steve Wilks calling the shots.