New York Jets rookie head coach Aaron Glenn has his defensive coordinator, and he's adding plenty of experience to his coaching staff.
Steve Wilks has agreed to terms with the Jets to become their new DC, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported Wednesday.
Glenn and the Jets are also expected to add Denver Broncos assistant Chris Banjo as their special teams coordinator, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported.
Wilks was most recently the San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator in 2023 and previously was the Arizona Cardinals head coach in 2018 and the Carolina Panthers interim head coach in 2022.
In his introductory news conference on Monday, Glenn said he doesn't plan to call defensive plays. Thus, the former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator's addition of Wilks is a pivotal one.
Wilks was out of the NFL in the 2024 season, but the 55-year-old should provide ample wisdom and perspective for Glenn to lean on if needed.
Wilks began his NFL coaching tenure in 2005 as a secondary coach for Washington. He's also been with the Chicago Bears, Chargers, Panthers and Cleveland Browns. His first DC job was with the Panthers in 2017 and he held the same position for Cleveland and, as aforementioned, the 49ers. With San Francisco, Wilks helmed the No. 3 defense in points scored, but was moved on from after a Super Bowl loss.
In New York, Wilks will find a wealth of defensive talent such as brothers Quinnen and Quincy Williams, cornerback Sauce Gardner and burgeoning defensive end Will McDonald IV.
Glenn, who is also adding Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden as his offensive line coach, per Pelissero, has made the first major addition to his staff.
