Super Bowl 2026: Patriots DC Terrell Williams returns to team cancer-free after 5-month battle

The New England Patriots are returning to the Super Bowl after a six-year absence, and they'll get their own return on the sidelines: defensive coordinator Terrell Williams. Williams is cancer-free after being diagnosed with prostate cancer early in the season, according to Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald.

Williams, 51, had multiple health scares before stepping away from the team. This will be the first time since September that Williams is back on the sidelines. On September 10, Williams took a leave of absence from the team. Williams was also away from the team after a medical procedure earlier in 2025. In August, Williams had a health scare during practice and was treated for dehydration.

In Williams' absence, linebackers coach Zak Kuhr took over play-calling duties, while defensive assistant Vinny DePalma worked with the linebackers.

This was Williams' first season with the Patriots after spending a year with the Detroit Lions as their defensive line coach and run game coordinator. Williams spent six seasons with the Titans as their assistant head coach and defensive line coach under Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.

On February 8, the Patriots will face the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl in Santa Clara, California.