4 immediate offseason objectives for the Carolina Panthers in 2023

Carolina Panthers must hire Steve Wilks

Steve Wilks may not be the best situational head coach in the league, but neither were a number of good NFL coaches when they first started. The Charlotte native is the definition of a leader, and that is his shining quality.

From day one of stepping in as interim head coach, Wilks brought enthusiasm, accountability, and pride. Levels of which had not been on the team since Ron Rivera was at the helm.

The culture of the Carolina Panthers was reinstalled. And despite finishing 6-6, there is no denying that the team looked completely different. In every game under Wilks, they had an identity and a cohesive game plan. Something that was missing most weeks when Matt Rhule held absolute power.

Wilks is a leader of men. And from his first press conference, he showed maturity and professionalism. But most importantly, he demonstrated care for the players and the organization.

That is not to say that Rhule did not have some similar qualities. However, he is the same guy that would fumble words, make backhand comments about players, and have (in the wrong way) memorable quotes.

Wilks is a straightforward man. He pushes players at the correct times and in the correct way. He provides praise and a sense of accomplishment when they deserve it. That has earned him the respect of the locker room.

Another reason why the Panthers should promote Wilks is that he is a hometown guy. He grew up and played football in Charlotte. He knows how much the organization means to the fans. Coaches are not only the head of the locker room, but they are lead ambassadors of the organization in the community. And there is no better person for that.

Everything is telling Carolina to remove the interim tag from Wilks, and that must be the first thing they do this offseason.