Former Carolina Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilks earned himself some coaching consideration with his performance in 2022.
The 49ers have reportedly requested permission to meet with Wilks for their likely soon-to-be vacant defensive coordinator position, per NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo.
Despite Wilks leading the Panthers to a 6-6 finish after the firing of Matt Rhule, the Panthers elected to hire Frank Reich as their next head coach. Wilks is still under contract with the Carolina organization, but is not expected to return in 2023.
Ryans is deep in head coaching interviews with the Houston Texans and is likely to earn a job in this year’s cycle. If Wilks were to join the Niners as DC this offseason, he would inherit the best defensive unit in the league.
Wilks, 53, has been an assistant in the NFL since 2006. He has defensive coordinator experience with the Panthers and Browns.