When the Washington Commanders brought in Steve Wilks to help Daronte Jones with defensive game planning, they downplayed it. He was in a consultancy role, and the team said he wouldn't be around on game days.
It didn't take long for this to become a major contradiction.
Grant Paulsen of 106.7 The Fan, later confirmed by other beat reporters, revealed that Wilks will now attend the Commanders' crucial game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football and beyond. And this came just a few days after the hiring was confirmed and quickly blown over.
Commanders have moved the goalposts already with Steve Wilks' role
ESPN insider John Keim added that the Commanders expect to have Wilks with the team on game days for the next three weeks, and nothing is confirmed after that.
Not sure yet what his role would be during the game. sounds like he could be here for the next three games through New York, per source. But beyond that will have to see; he still has responsibilities as a special assistant at Appalachian State https://t.co/bLPaq2kcgE
— John Keim (@john_keim) October 29, 2026
Wilks does have commitments at Appalachian State, but it seems as if he is more committed to the Commanders than fans initially thought.
And it adds another fascinating layer to a game that head coach Dan Quinn cannot afford to lose.
Some fans have drawn their own conclusions.
They believe Wilks puts more pressure on Jones and could be Quinn's interim replacement if the head man is fired. That might seem a little far-fetched, but the ever-changing responsibilities leave reasons for such questions.
Wilks is here to help Jones. The Commanders' defense has made positive strides this season, but it has lacked consistency for four quarters. Having a sounding board should only help the rookie NFL play-caller, but this dynamic cannot become anything more than that.
If the Commanders had been a little clearer about Wilks' role, this may not have been a problem. The timing of the appointment, and the quick shift in strategy around it, only raises doubts about this move's real intent.
And with the Commanders in a precarious position, this is a distraction Quinn could have done without.
Commanders believe this is the right move, but the Steve Wilks dynamic has to work
Everyone is looking to poke holes in the plan. That's what happens when you're 1-4-1, but something about this does seem a little off.
It might be nothing.
Then again, it might be something.
Wilks is an experienced defensive mind. He's gained significant success around the league, and Jones would be wise to lean on him heavily for any useful advice or counsel he may have.
He also developed a reputation for galvanizing a locker room as interim head coach with the Carolina Panthers when Matt Rhule was fired. Hopefully, Wilks won't need these skills in Washington, and it remains unlikely that majority owner Josh Harris will make any changes before the offseason.
People are probably making too much of this than needed. It was always the plan, dating back to the offseason. Why it took so long is anyone's guess, but it's vital that this relationship between Wilks and Jones is successful.
Otherwise, the questions and criticism will fall squarely on Quinn.
The Commanders didn't want to cut any corners or leave anything to chance. Quinn decided that the bye week was the best time to implement this change, and the goalposts have now shifted again.
Let's hope it all works out as Quinn expects.
Because it needs to, for his sake.
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