Patriots Fire Defensive Coordinator Terrell Williams After Third Straight Loss to Steelers

Foxborough, MA – September 21, 2025

The New England Patriots have parted ways with defensive coordinator Terrell Williams following Sunday’s 21–14 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a move that comes amid growing concerns about the team’s underperforming defense.

Williams, who had stepped away temporarily starting September 10 due to personal issues unrelated to health, returned to the sideline only to oversee a third straight loss. The Patriots defense, already ranked near the bottom of the league after a Week 1 collapse against the Las Vegas Raiders, once again faltered — allowing multiple deep completions and failing to contain Pittsburgh’s passing attack.

In Williams’ absence earlier in the season, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr handled defensive play-calling duties. Team sources indicate Kuhr will continue in that role on an interim basis while New England evaluates longer-term options.

Patriots officials cited both performance and health-related concerns in explaining the decision. Opponents are averaging nearly

29 points per game across the first three weeks, fueling pressure inside the organization for a swift change.

“We appreciate everything Terrell has done for our team, but at this time, we felt it was necessary to move in a different direction,”

one Patriots executive said Monday. “We have high expectations on defense, and accountability comes with that standard.”

The firing marks the latest shake-up for a Patriots team trying to rebuild its defensive identity in the post-Belichick era. For Williams, his short-lived tenure ends with frustration, as inconsistency and a poor start ultimately cost him his position.