The New England Patriots are promoting from within to solidify their defensive leadership, elevating inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr to full-time defensive coordinator. The move formalizes what had already become reality for much of the 2025 season.
Kuhr assumed play-calling duties after Week 1 when then-defensive coordinator Terrell Williams stepped away while battling prostate cancer. Williams has since transitioned to a different role on staff, clearing the path for Kuhr to take over permanently. By season’s end — including New England’s Super Bowl LX appearance against the Seattle Seahawks — Kuhr had firmly established himself as the architect of the unit.
Under Kuhr’s direction, the Patriots defense steadily improved, finishing the regular season fourth in points allowed and eighth in total yards surrendered. The group elevated its play in the postseason, giving up an average of just 8.6 points per game across three AFC playoff victories. Even in a 29-13 Super Bowl loss, New England limited Seattle to 335 total yards and only one offensive touchdown.
The 37-year-old Kuhr has deep ties to head coach Mike Vrabel’s coaching tree. He began his NFL career as a quality control coach with the Tennessee Titans in 2020, later serving as an inside linebackers assistant before spending a season with the New York Giants in 2024. He reunited with Vrabel in New England last season, a partnership that now continues with Kuhr officially at the helm of the defense.
Continuity appears to be the guiding principle. With most of the core contributors under contract — aside from pending free agents such as safety Jaylinn Hawkins and edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson — the Patriots are positioned to field a defense in 2026 that closely resembles the one that powered their AFC championship run.
