Jets' Wilks responds to Mayfield's comments

OutKick and other outlets reported on September 26, 2025, that New York Jets defensive coordinator Steve Wilks responded to comments made by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. [4] Following the Buccaneers' 29-27 Week 3 victory over the Jets, Mayfield called the win "personal," stating that Wilks was the coach who cut him from the Carolina Panthers in 2022. [1, 2] Mayfield’s brief time with the Panthers ended after he was benched and then granted his release while Wilks was the interim head coach. [2, 5]

During his weekly media availability, Wilks refuted the claim that he was responsible for Mayfield's departure from Carolina. [3] Wilks stated that as an interim coach, he did not have significant control over personnel decisions, noting he would not have traded star player Christian McCaffrey if he did. [3, 4] The public disagreement stems from Mayfield's 2022 season, where he went 1-5 as a starter for the Panthers before Wilks demoted him to third string. [3]