Detroit Lions Lose Terrell Williams to Patriots, Face Another Coaching Void

The Detroit Lions find themselves in familiar territory: searching for a new addition to their coaching staff.

Reports confirm that Terrell Williams, the Lions’ run game coordinator and defensive line coach, has been hired by the New England Patriots as their new defensive coordinator. This move reunites Williams with recently-appointed Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, a pairing that enjoyed six successful seasons together with the Tennessee Titans. During their tenure in Tennessee, Williams served as defensive line coach, and Vrabel eventually elevated him to the role of assistant head coach. That trust and camaraderie clearly played a key role in bringing Williams to New England.

Williams’ departure comes after just one season with the Lions, but his impact in Detroit was undeniable. Tasked with overseeing a promising defensive line, Williams played a significant role in the development of young talents like Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, Levi Onwuzurike, and rookie standout Mekhi Wingo.

Wingo, who flourished under Williams’ guidance, expressed his disappointment on Twitter:

Noooooooooooo https://t.co/7Td12SmxIe

— Mekhi Wingo (@WingoMekhi) January 21, 2025

Williams’ reputation as one of the league’s top defensive line coaches was well-recognized within the Lions’ organization. Head coach Dan Campbell, who worked alongside Williams on the Miami Dolphins’ staff in 2015, offered high praise for his former colleague last year.

“I think he is the best d-line coach in the league. If he’s not, he’s certainly right up there,” Campbell said.

This marks yet another significant loss for the Lions’ coaching staff. Under Campbell’s leadership, Detroit has experienced frequent turnover in the defensive line coaching role. Williams’ departure will necessitate the team’s fourth hire for the position in as many years. Previous coaches John Scott Jr. and Todd Wash each lasted only a season or two before moving on.

With a Lions team on the rise and an increasingly talented defensive line, the stakes are high for Campbell to find the right candidate to fill Williams’ shoes. Detroit’s defense showed flashes of dominance in 2024, and continuity at this critical position could be the key to unlocking their full potential in the coming season.

For the Lions, this setback is another chapter in their journey of building a contender. For Terrell Williams, it’s an opportunity to reunite with a trusted ally and continue making his mark in the NFL.