New England Patriots Promote Zak Kuhr to Defensive Coordinator

The New England Patriots are promoting Zak Kuhr to full-time defensive coordinator for the 2026 season after he led the unit to a top-four scoring rank in the NFL during their run to Super Bowl 60.Zak Kuhr originally took over defensive play-calling duties from Terrell Williams after the former coordinator was diagnosed with prostate cancer and required a leave of absence.While Zak Kuhr officially replaces Terrell Williams, the now cancer-free veteran coach will move into a higher-ranking role within the organization as Vinny DePalma is expected to fill the vacancy at inside linebackers coach.