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Mike Reiss
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams isn’t with the crew at rookie minicamp, saying Friday he had a “well being scare” whereas returning dwelling to Detroit for college spring break in late March.
Williams declined to disclose specifics — saying he would accomplish that sooner or later — however relayed that docs have informed him to stay there for now.
“I wish to make it clear, I am away from the constructing, however I am not away from the crew,” he mentioned, whereas thanking docs, nurses and therapists who’ve managed his care and rehabilitation.
Williams did not put a timeline on his return, saying: “I am working remotely proper now. Hopefully I will be capable to get again quickly and simply be within the constructing and be round everybody … I will simply say proper now that I am doing OK and I admire all of the prayers from everyone.”
Inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has been dealing with Williams’ obligations in his absence, in response to head coach Mike Vrabel.
Williams is in his first season as defensive coordinator. He joined the NFL in 2012 as defensive position coach with the Raiders (2012-14) earlier than dealing with the identical position with the Dolphins (2015-17), Titans (2018-23) and Lions (2024).
Williams described this as a “wake-up name” for him, spreading a message that he hopes will assist others.
“All of us have completely different stress ranges. Soccer is a job that clearly there may be some stress concerned. Simply consuming proper. Understanding. If you happen to’re alleged to take any treatment, take it. Like I informed the gamers, all of us assume we’re invincible,” he mentioned.
“I feel plenty of instances, when there are issues you possibly can stop, and you do not stop them, that is simply not being good. That is what I’ve performed the final couple of years, even longer. I’ve ignored docs. I’ve ignored everybody and simply type of lived my life. Whereas it was enjoyable, I understand it’s a must to handle your self. That is what I am doing.
“The place I’m now, my thoughts is obvious. I am shifting round. I am joyful. The whole lot is sweet. I am simply trying ahead to getting again to Foxborough and seeing everyone in individual.”
Williams shares a detailed bond with Vrabel, which started in 2018 when he joined his teaching employees in Tennessee. He mentioned Vrabel checks in with him every day, often very first thing within the morning.
Likewise, the 36-year-old Kuhr was on the Titans’ employees underneath Vrabel from 2020 to ’23. Williams mentioned the protection is in “nice arms” with Kuhr, and Vrabel additionally expressed his confidence in him.
“Zak has nice data of what we have performed prior to now, with me and this technique, and with Terrell,” Vrabel mentioned.
