CHARLOTTE - Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks is officially the next head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.
Wilks is a 1987 graduate of West Charlotte High School, where he starred as quarterback for the Lions football team.
Wilks takes over for retired head coach Bruce Arians after just one season as Panthers defensive coordinator.
Under Wilks, the Panthers finished seventh in total defense, 11th in points allowed, third in rush defense and third in sacks.
He previously served as defensive backs coach from 2012-16.
