Patriots Fire DC Terrell Williams After 21-14 Loss to Steelers Amid Defensive Woes

Foxborough, MA — September 21, 2025 — The New England Patriots have dismissed defensive coordinator Terrell Williams following a 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3, signaling a drastic response to the team’s persistent defensive struggles. The move, announced Sunday, comes as New England grapples with a bottom-tier defense that has failed to meet expectations in the post-Belichick era.

Williams, who briefly stepped away from the team starting September 10 for personal reasons unrelated to health, returned to the sideline only to oversee a third consecutive defeat. The Patriots’ defense, already reeling from a Week 1 collapse against the Las Vegas Raiders, struggled again, allowing multiple deep completions and failing to slow Pittsburgh’s passing attack led by Aaron Rodgers, who threw for 212 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-sealing 17-yard score to Calvin Austin.

Patriots Fire DC Terrell Williams After 21–14 Loss to Steelers Amid Defensive Struggles pic.twitter.com/yBYdd1SPlg

— Adam Schetfer (@fanhub_nfl) September 21, 2025

In Williams’ absence, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr took over defensive play-calling duties. Team sources confirm Kuhr will continue as interim defensive coordinator while the Patriots explore long-term replacements. The decision reflects mounting frustration, with opponents averaging nearly 29 points per game through the first three weeks, one of the worst marks in the NFL.

“We’re grateful for Terrell’s contributions, but we needed to make a change to meet our defensive standards,” a Patriots executive said Monday. “Accountability is paramount, and we’re committed to finding the right direction.” The statement, reported by Adam Schefter on X, underscores the organization’s urgency to address a defense that has faltered against both the run (122 yards allowed to Pittsburgh) and pass.

The firing marks another shakeup for a Patriots team striving to rebuild its defensive identity. Williams’ tenure, marred by inconsistency and a poor start, ends after just three games in 2025. The loss to Pittsburgh, where the Steelers’ defense forced four fumbles, an interception, and five sacks on rookie quarterback Drake Maye, highlighted New England’s struggles. Despite Maye’s 189 passing yards and a 10-yard rushing touchdown, the Patriots couldn’t capitalize on late opportunities, falling short on a critical fourth-and-2.

As New England, now 0-3, prepares for Week 4 against the San Francisco 49ers, Kuhr faces the challenge of rallying a beleaguered unit. With the AFC East race intensifying, the Patriots’ search for a new defensive coordinator will be pivotal to salvaging their season and restoring a once-proud defensive legacy.