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The New England Patriots revealed difficult news on Friday, as head coach Mike Vrabel announced that defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Williams, who stepped away from the team before Week 2 to undergo medical testing, is now in the process of mapping out his treatment plan. According to Vrabel, Williams is “meeting with specialists and figuring out the best plan of attack.”
Zak Kuhr to Continue Calling Plays
With Williams sidelined, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has handled defensive play-calling duties the last two weeks. Vrabel confirmed Kuhr will remain in that role on Sunday when the Patriots face the Carolina Panthers.
“You know how much Terrell means to me personally and to the people on this football team,” Vrabel said. “We want to send our regards and publicly let everybody know that’s what he’s dealing with.”
Strong Resume Across the NFL
Williams’ coaching career spans nearly two decades, with stops in Detroit and Tennessee before landing in New England this season.
Just last year, he served as the Detroit Lions’ defensive line coach and run game coordinator, helping guide one of the best defenses in the NFL. Detroit’s unit led the league in third-down defense (32.4%), ranked top five in rushing defense, and finished top 10 in both scoring defense and red zone efficiency.
Before Detroit, Williams spent six seasons with the Tennessee Titans under Vrabel, where his defensive lines consistently ranked among the NFL’s toughest against the run. In 2022, the Titans led the league in rushing defense, allowing just 76.9 yards per game and 3.4 yards per carry.
For now, the Patriots and the rest of the league will be rooting for Williams as he begins his battle with prostate cancer. His reputation as a respected coach, leader, and mentor has left an impact everywhere he’s been.
Vrabel put it best: “This is bigger than football.”
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Jeff Bilbrey
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