Mike Vrabel has already selected his new offensive coordinator, and it appears he’s now focused on finalizing his defensive coordinator. According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the Patriots are targeting Lions DL coach Terrell Williams for the DC role.

Albert Breer of The MMQB adds that the Patriots have requested and received permission to interview Williams. They’ve also had discussions with the coach, though these conversations seem more informal than a formal interview. People within the Lions organization are reportedly expecting Williams to join the Patriots.

Williams was a key figure for Vrabel during their time in Tennessee, where he held the role of assistant head coach in addition to coaching the defensive line. The two worked together for five years with the Titans, making Williams a logical candidate for the Patriots’ DC position.

During his tenure as the Titans’ DL coach, Williams helped the team rank fourth in the NFL in fewest rushing yards allowed. He was credited with developing Denico Autry, who recorded at least eight sacks in three consecutive seasons, and Jeffery Simmons, who earned two All-Pro honors under Williams’ guidance. After the Titans’ staff overhaul last offseason, Williams joined the Lions as their run-game coordinator and defensive line coach.

Although the future of Jerod Mayo’s staff was uncertain, it was clear that Vrabel would likely bring in his own coaching staff. DeMarcus Covington was the Patriots’ DC in 2024, with New England finishing just outside the bottom-10 in points and yards allowed.