Lions lose another assistant coach.

 

Updated: Jan 22, 2025 / 09:51 AM EST

Lions Lose Another Assistant Coach as Terrell Williams Joins Patriots

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Detroit Lions are facing another coaching staff shake-up. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Wednesday morning that defensive line coach Terrell Williams is leaving to become the New England Patriots’ defensive coordinator.

Williams, who has a long-standing relationship with Mike Vrabel, will reunite with him in New England. Vrabel, recently named head coach of the Patriots, previously worked with Williams for six years during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans. Williams served as the Titans’ defensive line coach and later as assistant head coach under Vrabel.

Although Williams spent only one season with the Lions, he made a significant impact, helping develop young talent like Levi Onwuzurike and Mekhi Wingo. Following reports of Williams’ departure, Wingo expressed his disappointment on social media, tweeting a reaction filled with 12 elongated "o's" to emphasize his sentiment.

This marks another challenge for Lions head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, who are already dealing with significant coaching changes. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson recently left to become head coach of the Chicago Bears, and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is rumored to be a candidate for several head coaching jobs this offseason.

Replacing defensive line coaches has been a recurring task for the Lions. Williams was the team’s third D-line coach in four years. Todd Wash held the role for two seasons before being succeeded by John Scott Jr. in 2023.

The Lions now face another crucial offseason decision as they look to maintain consistency in their coaching staff and continue developing their roster.