Williams was diagnosed with prostate cancer after Week 1’s loss to the Las Vegas Raiders and spent the season undergoing treatment away from the team. He has remained connected through meetings and support, serving as a rallying point for the organization as he recovered.
For the Super Bowl, Williams will be present in a supportive capacity, while linebackers coach Zak Kuhr continues to serve as the defensive play caller. Kuhr will handle play-calling duties for the big game.
Patriots safety Jaylinn Hawkins offered heartfelt words about Williams’ recovery, calling his progress a blessing and praising him as a strong coach, especially early in the season. Hawkins also thanked Williams for the guidance he provided before Williams’ diagnosis.
Williams personally thanked the medical staff at Mass General and everyone in the organization for their support, saying he’s been overwhelmed by the kindness he’s encountered in New England. “Hopefully we can bring a smile to their faces on Sunday,” he told the Boston Herald’s Andrew Callahan.
New England’s defensive unit has delivered a historic postseason run, allowing just 8.7 points per game across three playoff games—the lowest mark by any team with at least three postseason games since the 2000 Baltimore Ravens. The defense has produced 12 sacks, five interceptions, and four forced fumbles, with standout contributions from Carlton Davis (two INTs), K’Lavon Chaisson (three sacks), and rookie Craig Woodson (20 tackles).
Super Bowl LX kicks off in Santa Clara on Sunday, Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m. local time.
