New York City, NY, December 16, 2025
In a surprising move, the New York Jets have terminated the contract of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks following a 48-20 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jets’ defense has struggled throughout the season, ranking poorly in points allowed. Chris Harris has been appointed as the interim coordinator, with head coach Aaron Glenn assisting in play-calling duties. The Jets, now with a 3-11 record, are looking to close the season with three crucial games ahead, amid hopes for improvement and renewed direction.
New York Jets Part Ways with Defensive Coordinator Steve Wilks
Decision Follows Heavy Defeat to Jacksonville Jaguars
New York City, NY – In a stunning development following their latest game, the New York Jets have announced the firing of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. This decision comes shortly after the Jets experienced a lopsided 48-20 loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team’s performance has raised serious concerns, with the Jets’ defense ranking 30th in points allowed and 20th in total defense throughout the season.
Wilks, who joined the Jets in February 2025, faced significant challenges in revitalizing the team’s struggling defense. Under his leadership, the Jets allowed a staggering 438 total yards in the recent game, achieving season-high allowances in both total yards and points scored against them. Consequently, head coach Aaron Glenn has promoted Chris Harris, the current defensive backs coach and passing-game coordinator, to serve as the interim defensive coordinator for the remaining three games of the season, with Glenn stepping in to assist with play-calling duties.
Steve Wilks’ Coaching Background
Steve Wilks, 56, brought a wealth of coaching experience when he joined the Jets, having previously served as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. His track record includes a stint as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 2018 and as interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers in 2022. Despite these accolades, Wilks encountered difficulties during his tenure with the Jets, resulting in a defense that failed to meet expectations.
Jets’ Current Season Outlook
The New York Jets are facing a grim reality this season with a record of 3-11, marking their elimination from playoff contention for the 15th consecutive year. As they prepare to conclude the season, the team has scheduled games against the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and Buffalo Bills. The upcoming matchups will be crucial for the team as they seek to build momentum heading into a new season.
Implications of the Coaching Change
The decision to part ways with Wilks signals a potentially new direction for the Jets as they look to bolster their defense in the coming seasons. The appointment of Harris as interim coordinator reflects a commitment to developing talent from within and could provide fresh insights into improving team performance. Support for the local franchise remains high, and fans are eager to see how this coaching change influences the final games of the season.
Community Response and Future Directions
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ recent victory over the Jets is being hailed by fans as a decisive moment, showcasing the Jaguars’ growth and resilience this season. The team’s success serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic investments in coaching and player development, elements essential for sustaining competitive sports franchises. As Jacksonville continues to thrive, the focus remains on nurturing local talent and fostering a culture that encourages success on the field and beyond.
Key Takeaways
The firing of Steve Wilks marks a pivotal moment for the New York Jets and emphasizes the significant link between coaching performance and team success. As the Jets move forward, the collaboration between head coach Glenn and interim coordinator Harris presents an opportunity for renewal and innovation while the community remains invested in the team’s future trajectory.
FAQ
Why was Steve Wilks fired as defensive coordinator?
Steve Wilks was dismissed following a 48-20 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where the Jets’ defense allowed season highs in both total yards and points. The decision was made to address the team’s defensive struggles throughout the season.
Who will serve as the interim defensive coordinator?
Chris Harris, the Jets’ defensive backs coach and passing-game coordinator, has been appointed as the interim defensive coordinator for the remaining three games of the season. Head coach Aaron Glenn will assist Harris in play-calling duties.
What is Steve Wilks’ coaching background?
Steve Wilks has extensive coaching experience, including serving as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 2018 and as the interim head coach of the Carolina Panthers in 2022. He was also the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023.
What is the Jets’ current season record?
The New York Jets have a 3-11 record and have been eliminated from playoff contention for the 15th consecutive year.
What are the Jets’ remaining games this season?
The Jets will conclude the season with games against the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and Buffalo Bills.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Firing of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks |
| Reason | 48-20 loss to Jacksonville Jaguars; defensive struggles throughout the season |
| Interim Appointment | Chris Harris as interim defensive coordinator |
| Wilks’ Background | Former head coach of Arizona Cardinals and interim head coach of Carolina Panthers; defensive coordinator for San Francisco 49ers in 2023 |
| Jets’ Record | 3-11, eliminated from playoff contention for 15th consecutive year |
| Remaining Games | New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills |
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