The New England Patriots are reportedly promoting inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr to defensive coordinator (DC). This shouldn't come as much of a shock, considering the team's recent decision to create the vacancy he's now filling.
However, the Patriots gave their fans a scare by waiting a handful of days before making the news official. Perhaps they were doing their due diligence and exploring other options. Nevertheless, all roads led back to Kuhr, and for good reason; better late than never, we suppose.
Kuhr showcased what he can do with more responsibility when given the chance in 2025. His efforts stepping in for former Patriots DC Terrell Williams, who's being moved to a "high-ranking role," is the ultimate proof of concept.
Patriots make widely expected move to promote Zak Kuhr to DC
New England's defense was instrumental to their Super Bowl LX berth and AFC title run, and Kuhr was at the forefront of it all. He assumed play-calling duties while Williams was recovering from prostate cancer and seized the opportunity. The Patriots were incredibly sound on this side of the ball and even dialed it up a notch in the playoffs.
No one allowed fewer points per game (13.8) than the Patriots in the postseason. They also led the field in sacks (13) and interceptions (five) and trailed only the Houston Texans in opponent total yards (241.0). By virtually every metric, Kuhr's group rose to the occasion, leaving New England head coach Mike Vrabel with little choice other than to elevate him.
This was always the most logical outcome for the Patriots. Kuhr's ascension to the NFL has mostly come under Vrabel. Their established rapport, proven track record together and the success several defenders enjoy in Foxborough this season became too much to ignore.
Slowly but surely, Kuhr earned Vrabel's trust. The former spent one year as a quality control coach for the Tennessee Titans and three as an inside linebacker assistant, learning under the latter. They reconvened in New England after being apart for the 2024 campaign and will continue to build on their partnership.
Impressively, Kuhr, 37, was a longtime offensive coach in the collegiate ranks before latching onto the Vrabel-led Titans in 2020. So, it doesn't feel far-fetched to say that there's untapped potential here. More experience, especially in a full-time capacity, could go a long way for all parties involved.