Terrell

Williams

Kuhr took over defensive play-calling duties while Williams underwent treatment for prostate cancer this season. Williams is reportedly cancer-free, and will occupy a new role next season. Rapoport labels Kuhr “a top candidate” for the Patriots’ new defensive coordinator vacancy.

Williams has been away from the team since mid-September and will remain away for the time being, per Vrabel. The long-time defensive coach is in his first season with the Patriots and also spent time with Vrabel during his stint in Tennessee. Vrabel said Williams is undergoing treatment and is figuring out “the best plan of attack” to allow him to heal and return to the field. We wish him the best in his recovery.

Vrabel told reporters that inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr will handle Williams’ duties while the latter is away from the team, though he didn’t name Kuhr the defensive play-caller. With cornerback Christian Gonzalez also missing Wednesday’s practice, New England’s defense looks likely to be understaffed both on the field and in the coaching ranks. Week 2 should give Tua Tagovailoa a chance to bounce back after a horrific opener versus the Colts.

Williams is a veteran of the coaching ranks, joining the Raiders in 2012 before stints with the Dolphins, Titans, and Lions. He held the the title of defensive line coach in all four spots and added assistant head coach to his resume under Mike Vrabel, now the Patriots’ boss, in Tennessee. Williams was also listed as the run game coordinator in Detroit. The Lions gave up the fifth-fewest rushing yards to opponents this season despite getting hit with a slew of injuries. Vrabel now has both of his coordinators set with Josh McDaniels reclaiming the title of offensive coordinator in New England.

The longtime defensive line coach moved over to Detroit this offseason after spending 2018-2023 on Mike Vrabel’s staff in Tennessee. With Tennessee, he was an assistant head coach in 2023. He also has a long history in the league as a defensive line coach, including stints in Miami (2015-2017) and Oakland (2012-2014) as well as Tennessee. Williams served as Vrabel’s head coach in a preseason game in 2023, so Vrabel clearly believes he has the chops for a higher-level job. We expect this deal will come together shortly. The brain drain of the Lions continues.