4 potential jobs for Steve Wilks if Panthers look elsewhere in 2023
By Dean Jones
Texans defensive coordinator/head coach
Lovie Smith’s first full campaign as head coach of the Houston Texans hasn’t been a bed of roses. While his players are still displaying grit if their narrow loss at the Dallas Cowboys is any indication, the roster is devoid of genuine quality compared to others around the league.
Whether Smith is around to see out this rebuild is the big question. The Texans could use this opportunity to acquire someone else with the No. 1 overall selection well within reach, which leaves them with the first refusal for a top quarterback prospect such as Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud.
If Smith is removed, then Steve Wilks’ performance in difficult circumstances with the Carolina Panthers warrants an interview, at the very least. Should those in power give their current coach another shot, then it shifts the landscape.
Smith’s defensive unit remains a serious problem. Therefore, it would be prudent for the savvy veteran to call Wilks and see if he’d be interested in coming on board if other head coaching offers don’t arrive.
A tandem of Wilks and Smith could be the springboard to better things in Houston. And if all else fails, then the Texans have a ready-made interim that can step in at a moment’s notice and inspire.