Lions to interview new head coaching candidate next week

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The Detroit Lions have already completed several in-house interviews for their vacant head coaching position, and are reportedly linked to New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.

However, before all the dust settles, there’s still work to be done for Lions GM Bob Quinn, and he’s already got his sights set on yet another coaching candidate.

Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks will reportedly interview with the Lions next week. A 23 year coaching veteran, he’s spent the last 12 in the NFL. Just like Mike Vrabel, another possible Lions coaching candidate, Wilks is putting the finishing touches on his first year as a defensive coordinator.

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During his collegiate career, Wilks played for Appalachian State from 1987 to 1991, and spent a year in the Arena Football League for the Charlotte Rage. As head coach of Savannah State College, he compiled a 5-6 record.

His stops in the NFL include the Chicago Bears, San Diego Chargers, and Panthers. He was promoted to defensive coordinator after Sean McDermott was named Buffalo’s head coach.

He prefers the 4-3 defensive scheme, something that would benefit Detroit.

The Lions will have some competition to retain Wilks’ services, as the Giants, Cardinals and Colts have all reportedly asked permission to speak with him. He already interviewed with the Rams last year. 

“One thing that I believe in, it’s not about trying to out-scheme your opponent, it’s about trying to outplay them,” Wilks explained in an interview last year. “We are going to continue to focus on and emphasize the fundamentals of the game and we are going to put a quality product on the field. We are going to run to the football. We are going to create takeaways. And we’re gonna stop the run. That’s the main thing.”