Based off the love and support Steve Wilks has received from his former Carolina Panthers players over the past few days, it’s no wonder why so many have referred to him as a “leader of men.” And now, it’s the man who once led him that’s expressing his own bit of appreciation.
Yesterday, Wilks—who had been passed over for Carolina’s head coaching job—posted a message on Twitter thanking his friends, family, colleagues and players for all of their backing. Then, on Saturday morning, Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera hit the replies section of the tweet with this:
Steve it has always been an honor to work with U. You have shown U have what it takes to be an NFL HC. I look forward to that day U are given the opportunity again! #NFL
— Ron Rivera (@RiverboatRonHC) January 28, 2023
Rivera has played an instrumental role in Wilks’ professional career. Back in 2006, in the last year of his tenure as the Chicago Bears defensive coordinator, Rivera hired Wilks to his staff as a defensive backs coach—his first-ever NFL gig.
Three years later, Wilks rejoined Rivera in the same position with the San Diego Chargers for a pair of seasons. Then, of course, they reunited in Carolina from 2012 to 2017—where Wilks served as the defensive backs coach, defensive coordinator and assistant head coach.
