The Detroit Lions continue to see coaching changes, with one of the league’s top position coaches leaving the team. After just one season with Detroit, defensive line coach Terrell Williams is moving on to become the defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, under new head coach Mike Vrabel.
The move was first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Mike Reiss.
Rumors about Williams’ departure began circulating on Tuesday evening as Vrabel started to form his coaching staff in New England. Williams’ transition to a more prominent role is not unexpected, considering his long history with Vrabel. From 2018 to 2023, Williams worked as the Tennessee Titans’ defensive line coach, and in their final season together, Williams was promoted to assistant head coach.
Williams’ exit is a notable loss for the Lions, adding to the growing list of vacancies head coach Dan Campbell must address. Earlier this week, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson left the Lions after six seasons to become head coach of the Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is reportedly in line to take over as the New York Jets’ next head coach, though this has not yet been confirmed.
Campbell spoke to reporters Monday about the difficulty of balancing internal promotions with external hires when filling coordinator roles. He praised Williams as one of the best in his field but did not rule out bringing in candidates from outside the organization.
Under Williams, the Lions’ defensive line saw notable improvement this season, though key injuries impacted its progress. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and defensive tackle Alim McNeill were on track for career-best seasons before both were sidelined with injuries. Hutchinson, who suffered a broken tibia and fibula in Week 5, finished with 19 tackles, 17 quarterback hits, a forced fumble, and 7.5 sacks — the most by any Lions player this season. McNeill tore his ACL in Week 15 but had posted 25 tackles, 3.5 sacks, seven quarterback hits, a pass deflection, and a forced fumble before the injury. Newcomer D.J. Reader also made an impact, with 23 tackles and a career-high three sacks.
With Williams’ departure, the Lions will be looking for their fourth defensive line coach under Dan Campbell, following previous coaches Todd Wash and John Scott Jr.
