FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams is not with the team at rookie minicamp due to a “medical condition,” head coach Mike Vrabel announced Friday.
Zak Kuhr, inside linebackers coach, has been taking over Williams’ responsibilities in his absence, according to Vrabel.
Although Vrabel did not specify how long Williams has been absent from the team, a team source said the absence has extended for approximately the last month. Williams is scheduled to address reporters on Friday afternoon via videoconference.
“I’ve been in constant communication with him daily,” Vrabel said, who declined to set a timetable for Williams’ return. “Terrell is eager to return. We’re excited to have him back. He’s still been in contact with the players via Zoom, and with me and the rest of the coaching staff.”
Mike Vrabel
Williams, 50, is in his first season as defensive coordinator. He joined the NFL in 2012 as a defensive line coach with the Raiders (2012-2014) before holding the same role with the Dolphins (2015-2017), the Titans (2018-2023), and the Lions (2024).
His time with the Titans coincided with Vrabel’s tenure as head coach. Similarly, Kuhr, 36, was on the Titans’ staff under Vrabel from 2020 to 2023.
“Zak has a great understanding of what we’ve done in the past, with me and with this system, and with Terrell,” Vrabel said.
Mike Vrabel
Vrabel said his role as head coach has not been affected by having to spend more time with the defense.
“I don’t think anything has changed with me in terms of my involvement in the three phases,” he said.
Mike Vrabel
