Washington replaces Wilks as Panthers’ defensive coordinator

Courtesy: Carolina Panthers

CHARLOTTE (WOLO) – Hours after Steve Wilks was named the new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, the Carolina Panthers promoted defensive line coach Eric Washington to the role of defensive coordinator.

Washington has been the defensive line coach since Ron Rivera’s first season in charge as head coach, joining his staff prior to the 2011 season. In his time with the franchise, Washington has worked to help his Panthers earn two All-Pro nods, two Pro Bowl bids, and three Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie selections.

Wilks had previously replaced Sean McDermott, who left the Panthers’ staff following the 2016 season to become the Buffalo Bills head coach.

Rivera is set to have two new coordinators for the 2018 campaign after firing Mike Shula following the Panthers’ wild card loss and hiring Norv Turner to handle the offense.