Rivera says Wilks has proven he can be an NFL HC

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera. Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Ron Rivera says Steve Wilks has proven he can be an NFL HC

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 1/28/23

Steve Wilks did an admirable job as interim head coach of the Carolina Panthers. Still, the Panthers weren't entirely sold on Wilks, opting instead to hire Frank Reich as the team's next head coach.

While Carolina may have had doubts that Wilks was the right man for the job, former Panthers head coach Ron Rivera thinks differently.

Responding to a statement released by Wilks on Twitter following the Reich hire, Rivera pumped his former assistant up, saying he's shown "what it takes" to be a head coach in the NFL.

Steve it has always been an honor to work with U. You have shown U have what it takes to be an NFL HC. I look forward to that day U are given the opportunity again! #NFL
— Ron Rivera (@RiverboatRonHC) January 28, 2023

After being denied the Panthers' job, Wilks took the high road, releasing a classy statement via Twitter, thanking those who supported him in Carolina while wishing Reich his best.

While Wilks may have a fondness for the fanbase and those he worked with, there is certainly no love lost between him and the organization.

Shortly after the Panthers announced they were going with Reich, Wilks' attorneys released a scathing statement, voicing shock over the decision and pointing out the NFL's race problem with a promise to have "more to say in the coming days."

Wilks is already the co-defendant in Brian Flores' class action suit against the NFL, alleging race played a role in his firing from the Miami Dolphins and prevented him from being considered for head coaching jobs around the league.

Taking over in Week 6 for the fired Matt Rhule, Wilks led the Panthers to a 7-10 season, going 6-6 as interim coach.

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