New Defensive Coordinator Joins Aaron Glenn to Get New York on Track for Success
The New York Jets have hired Steve Wilks as their new defensive coordinator, marking the first major hire for Aaron Glenn's coaching staff. Wilks, 55, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as a head coach, interim coach, and defensive coordinator across several NFL teams. This hire signals Glenn's commitment to reshaping the Jets under his leadership. Glenn emphasized during his introductory press conference that he would not be calling defensive plays, but instead, he would focus on overall game management. His collaboration with Wilks will be a key relationship that will shape the Jets' future.
In addition to serving as the Cardinals’ head coach in 2018, Wilks won six games as the interim coach of the Carolina Panthers in 2022. Most recently, he served as the 49ers' defensive coordinator during their run to last year’s Super Bowl. After a short time in San Francisco and a year away from the NFL, Wilks is ready to take charge of the Jets' defense. He'll focus on developing talent and adapting to important roster changes.
The Jets’ defense has been among the NFL's best in recent years, finishing in the top five in yards allowed for three straight seasons. Wilks steps into the role previously held by Jeff Ulbrich, who served as the Jets' defensive coordinator from 2021 and as interim head coach for the final 12 games of the 2024 season. With 10 of the Jets' top 17 snap leaders, including cornerback D.J. Reed and linebacker Jamien Sherwood, heading to free agency, Wilks faces a unit in need of rebuilding and retention. As he implements his defensive strategy, Wilks, known for his expertise with secondaries, will have the opportunity to develop young players while maintaining the defense's high standards.
This hire is just one piece of Glenn's broader vision for the Jets. Alongside new general manager Darren Mougey, Glenn is assembling a nearly entirely new coaching staff to reshape the team. Glenn emphasized that building a strong culture is critical to the Jets' turnaround. Wilks' ability to lead and inspire players aligns with Glenn's goal of creating a winning environment in New York. With Wilks in place as defensive coordinator, Glenn and Mougey will now focus on other key staff positions. The Jets are reportedly in talks with Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand for the offensive coordinator role. Additionally, former Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden has been hired as the Jets’ offensive line coach.
As Glenn continues to assemble his coaching staff, all eyes will be on how the new hires come together and shape the Jets' performance in the 2025 season. Wilks' leadership will be crucial in keeping the defense at an elite level while aligning with Glenn’s broader vision for the team. The hiring of Steve Wilks signals the Jets' desire to transform their culture into one focused on winning, with a renewed commitment to excellence across all aspects of the team. As Glenn builds his staff and reshapes the franchise, fans eagerly await the hiring of an offensive coordinator, a crucial addition who will help answer the ultimate question: who will be the starting quarterback?
