3 factors Panthers owner David Tepper can’t ignore with Steve Wilks

Steve Wilks takes pride in the Carolinas

If any coach has ties or cares about the football community in the Carolinas, it’s Steve Wilks.
He was born and raised in Charlotte and attended West Charlotte High School. before moving on to Appalachian State University from 1987-91.

After graduating, Wilks even played for the Charlotte Rage in the Arena Football League.

Wilks began his coaching career at the collegiate level making stops at Johnson C. Smith, Savannah State, Illinois State, Appalachian State, East Tennessee State, Bowling Green, Notre Dame, and Washington.

This promising career then moved to the NFL level in 2006 when Wilks was hired as defensive backs coach for the Chicago Bears. He then coached in the same role with the San Diego Chargers.

Wilks finally landed with the Carolina Panthers in 2012 and had a ton of success until 2018 when he became head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. His secondary units were superb during his first stint with the organization – a trend that’s continued seamlessly this time around.

Now that Wilks has returned to Carolina, he has a legitimate shot to be the Panthers next head coach. He knows what makes the franchise and its long-suffering fanbase tick, which is bringing everyone closer and returning the sense of belonging across the board.

This is having the desired effect. Something team owner David Tepper would be wise not to ignore.