ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons have completed an interview with Steve Wilks for their open defensive coordinator position, the team announced on Friday. Wilks is the sixth candidate considered for the role, joining others like Jeff Ulbrich and Don "Wink" Martindale.

Wilks brings extensive experience to the table, having served as a defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers during the 2023 season. His career includes significant roles with several NFL teams. He worked with the Carolina Panthers from 2012 to 2017 in various capacities, including defensive backs coach and assistant head coach. In 2018, he was named head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. He returned to Carolina in 2022 as a defensive pass game coordinator before serving as interim head coach for six games.

This is not Wilks' first interaction with the Falcons. He has previously interviewed for positions within their coaching staff. In January 2023, he was considered for the defensive coordinator position but lost out to Ryan Neilsen. Later, he interviewed for the head coach role before Raheem Morris was selected.

Wilks' interest in Atlanta is evident through his repeated interviews and presence at training camp practices last preseason. General Manager Terry Fontenot acknowledged this connection, stating, "We love Steve Wilks," and noted his respect within the organization.

Despite his achievements, Wilks' departure from San Francisco raised questions. The team made it to the Super Bowl under his leadership in defense but chose not to retain him afterward. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan described it as a tough decision based on a need to move in a different direction schematically.

Whether this affects Wilks' prospects with Atlanta remains unclear, but it adds another layer to his candidacy story.