Patriots set to hire Zak Kuhr as full-time defensive coordinator—what this means for 2024.

The New England Patriots are expected to promote interim defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr to the full-time role, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Tuesday night. Kuhr, who took over as interim DC last season after Terrell Williams stepped back due to cancer, joined the staff in January 2025 and previously worked with Mike Vrabel, including stints as a defensive assistant and outside linebackers coach. He spent significant time with the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023.

In his first season as defensive coordinator, Kuhr helped the Patriots rank highly in several categories. The defense allowed 18.8 points per game (fourth in the NFL) and 295 yards per game (eighth), with 189 passing yards allowed per game (strong pass defense) and 100.9 rushing yards per game (sixth). The unit also ranked 10th in opponent third-down conversion rate, highlighting efficiency in situational defense.

Despite the overall strength, the Patriots faced some pass-rushing challenges, recording 35 sacks (17th in the league). Notable contributors included Harold Landry III with 8.5 sacks, Ka’Lavon Chiasson with 7.5, and Milton Williams adding 3.5 sacks, helping to disrupt opposing backfields.

The decision to formalize Kuhr as the full-time DC aligns with a broader organizational shift on the defensive staff, following Williams’ move to a different role within the Patriots. Kuhr’s continuity could provide stability as the defense attempts to build on last season’s success under Vrabel’s system.

Overall, the move emphasizes continuity and internal development, giving Kuhr the chance to further implement his defensive philosophy and build on an impressive 2025 performance for New England.