The New England Patriots are on the verge of a significant shift on the defensive side of the ball - and it’s a story of resilience, opportunity, and rising talent.
Defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, who courageously stepped away from his full-time duties in September 2025 after being diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, is transitioning into a new role within the organization. The 51-year-old, now cancer-free, won’t be returning as DC, but he’s staying with the Patriots in what’s being described as a high-ranking coaching position. That’s a win for both Williams and the franchise - keeping his experience and leadership in the building while opening the door for the next man up.
That next man might just be Zak Kuhr, the inside linebackers coach who took over playcalling duties during Williams’ absence - and never looked back.
Kuhr, who turns 38 in April, stepped into the spotlight this past season and made the most of his opportunity. Though he didn’t hold the official title of defensive coordinator, he was the one calling the shots for a Patriots defense that finished the regular season ranked eighth in total defense. That’s no small feat in today’s NFL, especially for a coach in his first year with the team.
Under Kuhr’s guidance, New England’s defense became the backbone of the team’s playoff push. While the offense had its ups and downs, the defense consistently kept the Patriots in games - and in the postseason, it was the unit’s ability to adjust, contain, and create pressure that stood out.
Kuhr’s playcalling was aggressive when it needed to be, disciplined when it had to be, and always tailored to the moment. That adaptability is what separates good coordinators from great ones.
Kuhr’s journey to this point is the kind of coaching trajectory that turns heads around the league. He broke into the NFL in 2020 with the Tennessee Titans under Mike Vrabel and brought with him a decade of college coaching experience.
While he’s worked on both sides of the ball, his NFL résumé has been rooted in defense - and it shows. His rise through the ranks has been swift, but not surprising to those who’ve worked with him.
Now, with the defensive coordinator position officially open, Kuhr is a top candidate - and rightfully so. The Patriots are expected to conduct interviews, as they should, but Kuhr has already proven he can handle the job.
He’s earned the trust of the locker room, demonstrated a deep understanding of the system, and delivered results on the field. That’s the trifecta.
For a Patriots team navigating a new era, continuity on defense could be a major asset. And if Kuhr gets the nod, it’ll be another example of the franchise betting on internal development - and winning.