Reports: Patriots hiring Terrell Williams as DC

Field Level Media|published: Wed 22nd January, 10:52 2025

Detroit Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams watches a play against San Francisco 49ers during the second half at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024.

Detroit defensive line coach and run-game coordinator Terrell Williams is leaving the Lions to reunite with coach Mike Vrabel as the New England Patriots' defensive coordinator, per multiple reports Wednesday.

The news follows Tuesday's reports that Josh McDaniels is heading back to New England for his third tour as the team's offensive coordinator.

Williams, 50, was on Vrabel's staff with the Tennessee Titans from 2018-23, finishing that tenure as the assistant head coach and defensive line coach.

He is the latest member of Lions head coach Dan Campbell's staff to depart this week, with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson named head coach of the Chicago Bears on Tuesday. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is a finalist for the New York Jets' coaching vacancy.

Williams coached the defensive line for the Miami Dolphins (2015-17) and then-Oakland Raiders (2012-14) after stints as an assistant at Texas A&M, Purdue, Akron and other schools.

--Field Level Media