Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday that the New England Patriots have elevated Zak Kuhr from his role as inside linebackers coach to the position of defensive coordinator.
The promotion comes after former defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, who was absent for much of the season due to his battle with prostate cancer, received medical clearance to return and was promoted to a senior position on head coach Mike Vrabel’s coaching staff.
Kuhr took over defensive play-calling responsibilities in the second week of the season and played a key role in leading the defensive unit to an outstanding campaign that culminated in a Super Bowl LX berth. The Patriots’ defense finished the season ranked eighth nationally in total yards allowed per game at 295.2, while placing fourth in points allowed per game with 18.8.
Following Williams’ advancement to a higher role last week, multiple reports indicated that Kuhr was considered the leading candidate to assume the defensive coordinator position permanently.
The 37-year-old Kuhr spent the 2024 season as a defensive assistant with the New York Giants before joining New England. Prior to that, he worked under Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans from 2020 through 2023, where he held positions as defensive quality control coach and inside linebackers assistant. His coaching background also includes several assistant coaching positions at the collegiate level.
