The man who will take over the Arizona Cardinals' head coaching job from the retiring Bruce Arians is Carolina Panthers' defensive coordinator Steve Wilks, the team confirmed Monday.
Wilks, 48, took over as defensive coordinator for the Panthers last season. He previously served as the team's secondary coach. The Charlotte, North Carolina native has spent the last 12 years as an assistant coach in the NFL.
According to a release from the Cardinals, during Wilks first year as defensive coordinator Carolina's defense finished seventh in the NFL for total defense, third in sacks and third in run defense.
"Carolina was the only team in the NFL last season not to allow an individual 100-yard rusher in any game," the release read.
According to the team, Wilks agreed to terms on a four-year contract with a team option for a fifth year.
The hiring ended the search for a coach much sooner than previously thought. Arians announced his retirement after the season's end earlier this month.
Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson apparently "loves" the news.
