Patriots DC Terrell Williams Cancer-Free, Set to Join Team at Super Bowl LX
There’s good news coming out of Foxborough - and it goes far beyond football.
New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has been declared cancer-free, capping off a months-long battle that began with a prostate cancer diagnosis back in September. The 51-year-old coach, who joined the Patriots last offseason under new head coach Mike Vrabel, is now on the other side of that fight - and he’s making the trip with the team to Super Bowl LX.
It’s been anything but a smooth ride for Williams since arriving in New England. After being hired in January 2025, he was sidelined early on by a separate medical issue that kept him away from the team during the offseason. He returned in time to coach just one regular season game before stepping away again, this time to focus on his health after the cancer diagnosis was made public.
In his absence, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr took over defensive play-calling duties and held down the fort admirably. But even while undergoing treatment, Williams didn’t fully step away. He remained a presence in the locker room, staying connected with the team and the players throughout the season.
Now, with the Patriots preparing to face the Seattle Seahawks on the biggest stage in football, Williams is back - and healthy.
“All of the doctors, all of the nurses at Mass General, and everyone that’s taken blood samples, all the people there, they’re so important and good at what they do,” Williams said earlier this week. “I appreciate those guys.
And I appreciate this organization and the people of New England. When I say that, I mean it.
I’m just shocked at how kind the people are up here. And it’s been unbelievable.
Hopefully we can bring a smile to their faces on Sunday.”
It’s a powerful moment for a coach who’s been through more than most this season. And while the Super Bowl spotlight will naturally shine brightest on the field, Williams’ return to the sideline - cancer-free - is a victory all its own.