Zak Kuhr — New England Patriots Defensive Coordinator

Promoted to defensive coordinator after handling play-calling duties in 2025, Zak Kuhr runs the Patriots defense that carried the team to the Super Bowl.

Quick Facts

Role: Defensive Coordinator
Team: New England Patriots (NE)
Current holder: Zak Kuhr
Prior role: Inside Linebackers Coach (2025), effectively serving as play-caller after Terrell Williams' health issues
Coaching tree: see Coaching Trees

Background

Kuhr served as inside linebackers coach in 2025 but took over defensive play-calling duties after Terrell Williams was sidelined with a prostate cancer diagnosis. His aggressive defensive scheme helped the Patriots reach the Super Bowl. Officially promoted to defensive coordinator for 2026, with Vinny DePalma taking over as inside linebackers coach. Mike Vrabel praised the promotion and Kuhr's ability to help multiple areas of the team and defense.

Scheme and Tendencies

Known for aggressive play-calling in the postseason. His defensive approach emphasizes pressure and creative schemes that helped the Patriots defense become one of the best in 2025.

Recent News

2026-03-16 — Patriots name Terrell Williams assistant head coach, announce other staff changes (Patriots name Terrell Williams assistant head coach, announce other staff changes)
2026-05-04 — Patriots defense building on 'new normal' entering 2026 (Patriots defense building on 'new normal' entering 2026)

Sources

(receipts)