Former 49ers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks has landed a new position as the defensive coordinator for the New York Jets, under head coach Aaron Glenn. Wilks will have the opportunity to call defensive plays and likely have more control over his defensive system, a freedom he didn’t have in San Francisco.
Wilks’ time with the 49ers lasted just one season, as the defense experienced some regression compared to the previous year under DeMeco Ryans. While the 49ers defense gave up the fewest points in the NFL under Ryans (16.3 points per game), Wilks’ defense allowed 17.5 points per game, which was still impressive but ranked third in the league.
Several factors contributed to the decline in performance, including the loss of key players like Jimmie Ward, Azeez Al-Shaair, and Samson Ebukam, while Javon Hargrave, who replaced some of them, didn’t perform well. Additionally, safety Talanoa Hufanga suffered a torn ACL midway through the season. Despite these setbacks, the 49ers’ defense remained strong, allowing fewer than 18 points per game.
Wilks’ defense faced Kansas City in the Super Bowl, where they allowed 19 points in regulation and 22 total points to Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, a solid performance given the difficulty of facing that high-powered offense. Despite this, Wilks was dismissed shortly after the game, even though the defense had managed well against one of the best teams in the league.
After his firing, Wilks was unable to secure another job due to the late timing of his dismissal, leaving him out of the league for a year. It’s great to see him back in action with the Jets, as he’s a capable coach who was unfairly treated during his time with the 49ers.
