Steve Wilkes, East Carolina Panthers Interim Head CoachOne day Friday morning, I broke my silence upon learning that we would not be named the organization’s next head coach.
after the news that Panthers hired Frank Reich On Thursday, Wilkes posted a message on Friday to social media thanking his former players and staff.
Carolina Panthers head coach Steve Wilkes walks the field before an NFL football game on Sunday, October 16, 2022, in Inglewood, Calif.
(AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Wilkes said, “The sun rose this morning and by the grace of God I did.” said on twitter, “I’m discouraged but not defeated. Not many people are made for this, but I know what it means to persevere and see it through.”
“It was an honor to coach these men carolina panthers locker room as interim head coach. To the players, coaches and staff, thank you for your hard work and dedication. I’m proud to represent Charlotte, a great city I love so much. Thank you to my family, friends and community for your overwhelming support.
“I wish Frank Reich all the best. I will always be a fan of the Carolina Panthers football team.”
Wilkes beat the Panthers san francisco 49ersdropped Carolina to 1-4.
Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich stands during the first half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, November 6, 2022 in Foxboro, Massachusetts.
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
He went 6–6 in his time as interim head coach, putting the Panthers in playoff contention at the end of the season.
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Several Panthers players expressed their support for Wilkes to get a full-time job.
Following news of Reich’s hire on Friday, the law firm representing Wilkes panthers organization reprimanded in a statement.
“We are shocked and upset that after an incredible job by Coach Wilkes as interim coach, including leading the team back into playoff contention and garnering the support of players and fans, that he was passed over for the head coach position . [CEO] David Tepper,” Vigdor LLP said in a statement obtained by Fox News Digital.
Carolina Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilkes looks on during warmups prior to the game against the Detroit Lions at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
(Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
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“The NFL has a legitimate race problem, and we can assure you we’ll have more to say in the coming days.”
Vigdor LLP also represents the former Miami Dolphins Head Coach Brian Flores In his racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL.
Reich was fired by the Indianapolis Colts in the middle of the 2022 season after going 3–5–1.