Pats Pulpit
The New England Patriots’ summer break before training camp is nearing its end, and for some members of the organization it already has. On Monday, the team’s coaching staff led by head coach Mike Vrabel reported back to Gillette Stadium.
Coming off a 14-3 season and Super Bowl berth, Vrabel’s staff underwent some changes.
Nominal defensive coordinator Terrell Williams was moved to assistant head coach, with now-former inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr succeeding him in his previous role. Kuhr already served as the team’s defensive play caller for most of 2025 following Williams’ prostate cancer diagnosis in September.
Besides officially naming Kuhr defensive coordinator and moving Williams to a different role, the Patriots also promoted Vinny DePalma from defensive assistant to inside linebackers coach. DePalma already worked a similar role during the 2025 season, after Kuhr took over play-caller duties from Williams.
In addition to the internal moves, the Patriots also welcomed three new assistants into the fold. Jonathan Decoster will work as offensive line assistant, B.J. Edmonds as defensive assistant, and Charles London as offensive analyst. Furthermore, former New England second-round draft pick Joejuan Williams recently announced that he would be back with the club this summer under the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship.
While the Patriots’ coaches are back in the office, the team’s players still have a few days before their own report dates. The first group of players will check in on Wednesday, followed by the rest of the roster on Friday.
The first practice of the summer is scheduled for 10.15 a.m. ET on Saturday, July 25.
