# Commanders Add Defensive Coach to Fix Struggling Defense

> Washington Commanders hire Steve Wilks to boost defense after inconsistent play.
- Title: Commanders Add Defensive Coach to Fix Struggling Defense
- Summary: Washington Commanders hire Steve Wilks to boost defense after inconsistent play. Washington Commanders hired Steve Wilks to help their struggling defense…
- Keywords: washington commanders, steve wilks, defensive coaching staff, nfl, 49ers, daronte jones, quinn, sports, Commanders, Add, Defensive, Coach
- Source: Washington Commanders On SI — https://si.com/nfl/commanders/onsi/commanders-steve-wilks-defensive-coaching-staff
- Published: 2026-10-21T22:29:10+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: washington commanders, steve wilks, defensive coaching staff, nfl, 49ers, daronte jones, quinn, sports
## Commanders hire Steve Wilks
Washington Commanders hired Steve Wilks to help defensive staff ahead of 49ers game.
## Wilks joins team last week
Wilks started working with team last week after decision made in September.
## Wilks' NFL experience
Wilks has two Super Bowl trips: Panthers 2015, Cardinals 2018, Panthers interim 2022.
## Wilks' recent role
Wilks was Jets' defensive coordinator in 2025 before being fired in December.
## Defense struggles
Washington defense ranks 29th in points per game at 28.7 with 1-4-1 record.
## Wilks' role clarified
Wilks works on Sundays and leaves after Wednesday practice with no playcalling duties.
## What's next
Real test comes after bye week to see if defense improves consistently.
## Key takeaway

Washington Commanders hired Steve Wilks to help their struggling defense ahead of the 49ers game.