Commanders hire Steve Wilks to bolster defensive coaching staff
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 21, 2026, 7:58 PM
Last updated Oct 21, 2026

The Washington Commanders have hired Steve Wilks to assist their defensive coaching staff, a decision made last month but announced today. Wilks, who has extensive NFL experience including roles as a defensive coordinator and head coach, will focus on game planning during the week but will not attend games. This move comes as the Commanders aim to improve a defense that has struggled, particularly after allowing nearly 600 passing yards in their last two games. Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones has acknowledged the need for greater consistency from players, which Wilks is expected to help address.
- •Commanders announced Wilks' hiring on October 21, 2026.
- •Wilks will assist during practice but not on game days.
- •Washington is experiencing defensive challenges with a record of 1-4-1.
- •The decision was made before recent struggles came to light.
- •Wilks has prior experience as a defensive coordinator and head coach.
- 7:58 PMYahoo Sports — Commanders announce change to coaching staff
"The team has decided to bring in a new coach.
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