New England’s new head coach, Mike Vrabel, is building a coaching staff that features several individuals from his previous tenure with the Tennessee Titans.
On Wednesday, the Patriots revealed a coaching staff comprising 26 members, of which 11 previously worked alongside Vrabel during his six years with the Titans from 2018 to 2023.
Among the appointments, Terrell Williams has been named defensive coordinator, having previously acted as Vrabel’s defensive line coach while in Tennessee.
Additionally, some coaches are stepping into new roles within the Patriots organization. John Streicher, formerly the director of football administration in Tennessee, will now serve as vice president of football operations and strategy.
New inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr transitions from being Vrabel’s assistant linebackers coach, while Clint McMillan, who was the one-time assistant defensive line coach with the Titans, will take the reins as the primary defensive line coach for New England.
A number of other former Titans coaches are also joining Vrabel’s staff in various capacities. Todd Downing, who had been the Titans’ offensive coordinator, is now the receivers coach.
Further, Jason Houghtaling takes on the role of assistant offensive line coach, Tony Dews serves as running backs coach, and Scott Booker will work as the safeties coach.
Justin Hamilton, who was a defensive quality control coach with the Titans in 2023, will step in as cornerbacks coach, while Frank Piraino, director of sports performance, and Tom Quinn, assistant special teams coach, also transition to the Patriots.
There are a few familiar faces remaining from the previous coaching staff led by Jerod Mayo. His brother, Deron Mayo, will continue as strength and conditioning coach, alongside assistant strength coach Brian McDonough, assistant offensive line coach Robert Kugler, and defensive assistant Vinny DePalma.
Ben McAdoo, who previously served as a senior offensive assistant under Mayo, will now take on the role of senior defensive assistant under Vrabel.
Earlier, it was reported that Josh McDaniels has been appointed as the offensive coordinator, with Jeremy Springer continuing his role as special teams coordinator, a position he held last season under coach Mayo.
Another significant addition to the staff is Thomas Brown, who will serve as the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator. Brown had initially begun the season as the passing game coordinator for the Chicago Bears before being elevated to offensive coordinator during the season and then to interim head coach for the last six games.
In a statement, Vrabel emphasized his commitment to building a staff of loyal and trustworthy coaches, diverse in their backgrounds and ideas.
“We will be aligned in our vision to teach and develop our players with creativity, consistency, and an attention to detail, focusing on fostering relationships that extend beyond just the field and meeting rooms,” Vrabel remarked.
