Where is Terrell Williams? Why Patriots defensive coordinator is stepping away from team

New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams is in his first season with the team, but he will be away from the organization for the foreseeable future.

Head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters on Wednesday that he would be taking over for Williams while the defensive coordinator deals with a personal issue. Williams had a series of health scares over the offseason, but returned to his duties in training camp and for the regular season.

However, that only lasted a week into the season, as Williams had to step away for a personal issue ahead of Week 2 vs. Miami Dolphins. Here's the latest on Williams' status.

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Why is Terrell Williams away from the Patriots?

Mike Vrabel announced that Williams is away from the Patriots for a few days due to "unforeseen ongoings." Vrabel added that the issue is different from Williams' health issue over the offseason, but something came up that Williams needs to get tested.

Mike Vrabel says defensive coordinator Terrell Williams will be away from the team for the next few days. He explains the situation at the start of his press conference. pic.twitter.com/iFE03XbmuK

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Will Terrell Williams coach in New England's Sunday game against Miami?

Williams will not return for the Patriots game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

Vrabel said Friday that it will be inside linebackers coach Zak Kuh calling defensive plays for the Week 2 matchup in Williams' absence.

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Timeline of Terrell Williams health issues

Early in the 2025 offseason, Williams stepped away from his new position with the Patriots due to an undisclosed medical issue. When Williams returned in May, he explained that he needed to eat better and work out more moving forward.

"I think a lot of times, when there are things you can prevent, and you don't prevent them, that's just not being smart. That’s what I've done the last couple of years, even longer," Williams said. "I've ignored doctors. I've ignored everyone and just kind of lived my life. While it was fun, I realize you have to take care of yourself. That's what I’m doing."

Then, at the start of training camp in early August, Williams appeared to collapse during a practice and needed medical attention. After the practice, New England announced that Williams was treated for dehydration and did not experience anything related to his previous medical scare.

Williams remained with the team through training camp until Week 2 of the regular season, when he needed to once again step away from the team to deal with a personal matter.

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