In this episode of the UNPACKIN' it Podcast, host Bryce Johnson sits down in-studio with long-time NFL coach and App State Special Assistant to Athletics, Steve Wilks!
Steve takes us through his incredible football journey - from playing defensive back at Appalachian State to coaching in three Super Bowls, serving as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, and leading as interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers.
More About Steve:
Steve Wilks is a Charlotte native, Appalachian State alum, and veteran football coach with more than 30 years of experience, including 17 seasons in the NFL.
Wilks played defensive back at App State from 1987–1991, helping the Mountaineers win Southern Conference championships in 1987 and 1991. He later returned to Boone as the program’s defensive backs coach in 2001 and now serves his alma mater as a special assistant to athletics.
During his NFL career, Wilks has coached with the Chicago Bears, San Diego Chargers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Jets. He served as head coach of the Cardinals in 2018 and went 6–6 as the Panthers’ interim head coach in 2022. He was also part of three Super Bowl teams—as Carolina’s assistant head coach and defensive backs coach during its run to Super Bowl 50, assistant with the Bears in Super Bowl XLI, and as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator during its appearance in Super Bowl LVIII.
Beyond the game, Steve opens up about:
His new role supporting App State athletics and navigating the modern NIL/revenue-sharing landscape.
His thoughts on Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young and week-one takeaways in the NFL.
Why true identity shouldn’t be tied to a career or title ("You can't chase purpose and identity at the same time").
How God used major disappointments and firings in his career to redirect him toward greater purpose and family presence.
The leadership principles behind building authentic relationships with players like Josh Norman and Luke Kuechly.
Connect & Support:
3T Foundation: Learn more about Coach Wilks' foundation and its upcoming "Dinner with a Purpose" event on November 13 in Charlotte at https://www.3tfoundation.info
UNPACKIN' it: Check out our weekly sports, faith, and Fantasy Football Fellowship podcasts.
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