FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams is just not with the group 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 instructed him to stay there for now.
“I need to make it clear, I am away from the constructing, however I am not away from the group,” he stated, 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 of 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 respect all of the prayers from all people.”
Inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has been dealing with Williams’ duties in his absence, based on 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 function 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 totally different stress ranges. Soccer is a job that clearly there may be some stress concerned. Simply consuming proper. Figuring out. If you happen to’re imagined to take any remedy, take it. Like I instructed the gamers, all of us assume we’re invincible,” he stated.
“I believe lots of occasions, when there are issues you’ll be able to forestall, and you do not forestall them, that is simply not being sensible. That is what I’ve completed the final couple of years, even longer. I’ve ignored docs. I’ve ignored everybody and simply sort of lived my life. Whereas it was enjoyable, I notice it’s a must to deal with your self. That is what I am doing.
“The place I’m now, my thoughts is obvious. I am transferring round. I am completely satisfied. Every little thing is nice. I am simply wanting ahead to getting again to Foxborough and seeing all people in individual.”
Williams shares an in depth bond with Vrabel, which started in 2018 when he joined his teaching workers in Tennessee. He stated Vrabel checks in with him day by day, often very first thing within the morning.
Likewise, the 36-year-old Kuhr was on the Titans’ workers below Vrabel from 2020 to ’23. Williams stated the protection is in “nice fingers” with Kuhr, and Vrabel additionally expressed his confidence in him.
“Zak has nice information of what we have completed up to now, with me and this technique, and with Terrell,” Vrabel stated.
