After his stint as the interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers in 2022, Steve Wilks made a strong impression on both players and fans alike. While Wilks ultimately didn’t land the full-time head coaching job in Carolina, he has since re-established himself as a well-respected defensive mind in the NFL. As Wilks continues to make his mark, it’s possible that some of his former Panthers players could follow him to his next destination, should he take another head coaching job or move to a new team in some capacity.
Here are four players from the Panthers’ roster who could potentially reunite with Wilks if he gets a new job in the near future:
1. Brian Burns (OLB)
Brian Burns is undoubtedly one of the best players the Panthers have had in recent years. Under Wilks’ defensive leadership, Burns thrived as a standout edge rusher, regularly wreaking havoc in opposing backfields. With Wilks’ ability to maximize the potential of his pass rushers, Burns could be a prime candidate to follow Wilks should he take a head coaching or defensive coordinator role elsewhere.
Burns has been one of the most consistent performers on the defensive side of the ball in Carolina, and his familiarity with Wilks’ system would make a transition to another team coached by Wilks seamless. Whether it’s via trade or free agency, Burns could be a hot commodity for a defense looking to build around a premier pass rusher, and Wilks could be the key to unlocking his full potential.
2. Shaq Thompson (LB)
Shaq Thompson has been with the Panthers since 2015 and has often been regarded as one of the heart and soul players of the defense. Known for his versatility and leadership, Thompson flourished under Wilks’ tutelage during his time as defensive coordinator in Carolina. The two developed a strong working relationship, with Wilks often utilizing Thompson’s athleticism to impact the game in multiple ways.
Should Wilks secure a head coaching job or move to a team in need of a veteran linebacker, Thompson could be a top candidate to join him. His experience, leadership, and familiarity with Wilks’ defensive schemes make him a likely candidate to reunite with his former coach, bringing stability and leadership to a new defensive unit.
3. DJ Moore (WR)
DJ Moore has been one of the Panthers’ most dynamic playmakers for several years, but his time in Carolina came to an end when he was traded to the Chicago Bears in 2023. While Moore was not directly coached by Wilks (who was the interim head coach during his final season in Carolina), his skill set and potential in Wilks’ offense make him an intriguing prospect if Wilks were to bring him back into the fold.
Moore is an incredibly talented receiver, known for his ability to stretch the field and create separation. If Wilks were to take over a team in need of a top-tier wideout, Moore could be an excellent fit. The connection between the two could spark a reunion, with Wilks looking to maximize Moore’s talents as a centerpiece in the passing game.
4. Taylor Moton (OT)
Taylor Moton has been a pillar on the Panthers’ offensive line, earning Pro Bowl recognition for his consistency and durability. While offensive line players don’t often change teams as quickly as skill position players, Wilks’ influence could potentially play a role if Moton were to be pursued by a team with an opening at tackle. Given Moton’s solid reputation and Wilks’ history of coaching players to their highest potential, there could be mutual interest in reuniting should Wilks land a new head coaching role.
If Wilks were to take over a team in need of stability along the offensive line, Moton’s blend of technical skill and leadership would make him an excellent addition. Wilks understands the importance of a strong offensive line to protect the quarterback and establish a balanced offense, and Moton could be the ideal candidate to help anchor a new system.
Conclusion
While the NFL is always full of surprises, it’s clear that some Panthers players could very well follow Steve Wilks if he lands a new job as a head coach or coordinator. Whether it’s a star defender like Brian Burns or a leader like Shaq Thompson, Wilks has a deep connection with several players who thrived under his guidance in Carolina. As Wilks continues his career, it will be interesting to see how his coaching style continues to impact players and whether any of these former Panthers reunite with him in the future.
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