Steve Wilks Impact on Panther’s Secondary
The Panther’s secondary is making a lot of noise in Spartanburg, SC, and that is heavily due to new secondary coach/defense pass game coordinator Steve Wilks. Wilks was hired back in February, and will be making his second stint in Carolina after leaving in 2018.
In his second stint, Wilks will have the luxury of game planning with a secondary that has Jeremy Chinn(S), Donte Jackson(CB), CJ Henderson(CB) , Xavier Woods(S), Keith Taylor(CB) and Jaycee Horn(CB).
This was a smart re-hire by general manger Scott Fitterer. Wilks is exactly what this defense as well as team needs. He brings familiarity, intensity, relatability, a veteran pedigree and importantly commands respect from every guy in the locker room.
So far in early reports, the DBs are playing with an edge, and making Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield work for every rep.
Red zone passing numbers:
Sam Darnold 7-8, 2 TD w/ 2nd team
Baker Mayfield 3-8, 1 TD w/ 1st team— Joe Person (@josephperson) July 30, 2022
Panther’s Secondary
In the first week of camp, Donte Jackson(CB), was asked at his pressor about the impact Wilks has had on the secondary, and had nothing but positive things to say.
“He’s a true dog, and he mixes in with the group perfectly,” Jackson said. “A high intensity guy, and his whole motive is to have everyone go in the right direction, have fun and lifting each other up.” “He’s been a great great addition…and everyday he’s on go.”
Cornerback CJ Henderson, who the Panthers traded for last year from Jacksonville, has also looked good in camp.
Sam Darnold during team period
Last play was a breakup by CJ Henderson
Here Jeremy Chinn picks off Darnold pic.twitter.com/Mk3NmbglvO
— IamMontyFetti 🖤💙✊🏾 (@4MR_Monty) July 30, 2022
Before Wilks arrival, the Panther’s had one of the best pass defenses, allowing 192.1 passing yards per game in 2021. Something real special is brewing in the Panthers secondary. And it would not be surprising if a couple Panther DBs take home accolades in 2022.
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