Former Carolina Panthers coach Steve Wilks is back in familiar territory.
As announced on Thursday morning, Wilks has returned to his alma mater of Appalachian State University to serve as an special assistant to athletics. The Charlotte, N.C. native played defensive back for the Mountaineers from 1987 to 1991 before beginning his coaching career in 1995.
Director of athletics commented on Wilks’ hire in the program’s official statement.
“We are thrilled to have Steve back at his alma mater to bring his extensive professional expertise and wisdom to our university and athletics department,” Gillin stated. “It’s an opportunity not only to have a former NFL head coach impact our program, but also someone who loves the university from which he graduated. This is a huge win for App State.”
Wilks worked a couple of stints for the Panthers—serving as their defensive backs coach, assistant head coach and defensive coordinator between 2012 and 2017 as well as their defensive passing game coordinator, secondary coach and interim head coach in 2022.
His last NFL stop came as the defensive coordinator with the New York Jets in 2025.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Former Panthers interim HC Steve Wilks lands gig with alma mater