Once beloved Panthers coach facing career collapse after unavoidable firing

Former Carolina Panthers coach Steve Wilks | Jim McIsaac/GettyImagesSteve Wilks was and still is beloved by everyone connected to the Carolina Panthers. His ability to galvanize the franchise after Matt Rhule was fired remains a fond memory of a disastrous era. It wasn't enough to secure the head coaching job permanently, as those in power opted for Dave Canales instead to spearhead their exciting new era.

He felt aggrieved, and perhaps rightfully so. The Panthers are making good progress under Canales, but the esteem in which Wilks is held around the league meant another opportunity was forthcoming quickly. However, after being fired as San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator, the same…