New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has been declared cancer-free after a battle with prostate cancer dating back to September, the team confirmed to NFL Media.
Williams, 51, was diagnosed with prostate cancer following New England's Week 1 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders and stepped away from the club for treatment, though he remained involved with players and went to the facility to attend meetings during a season that saw the Patriots make an unexpected run to Super Bowl LX.
He will be there with the Patriots when they take on the Seattle Seahawks, as head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters on Thursday the DC would travel with the team for the big game. It's the first time Williams will do so since he received his diagnosis.
The terrific news and added bonus of Williams' presence is a big boost for the Pats, especially to a defensive unit that has regained the form of its dynastic heyday. Linebackers coach Zak Kuhr stepped in as the primary play-caller on defense following Williams' diagnosis and oversaw a New England unit that finished second in points allowed and third in yards surrendered. It was the first time the Patriots finished in the top five in each of those categories since the last time they won a Super Bowl, during the 2018 season.
New England has allowed an average of just 8.6 points across three playoff games, with a stellar eight takeaways to help power the Pats to the Super Bowl stage.
If they keep it up versus Seattle, a record seventh Lombardi Trophy could well be within reach.
Williams, who detailed his treatment experience to the Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan, is counting on just that.
"All of the doctors, all of the nurses at Mass General, and everyone that's taken blood samples, all the people there, they're so important and good at what they do," Williams said. "I appreciate those guys. And I appreciate this organization and the people of New England. When I say that, I mean it. I'm just shocked at how kind the people are up here. And it's been unbelievable.
"Hopefully we can bring a smile to their faces on Sunday."
