Before the New England Patriots take the field for a Week 4 showdown with the Carolina Panthers, head coach Mike Vrabel had unfortunate news to share with the public.
Vrabel is currently in his first season as the head coach of the Patriots. His squad is coming off a tough 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. They were a drive away from potentially tying things up. Unfortunately, Drake Maye’s fourth-down pass attempt to DeMario Douglas. The defense for New England played well in Week 3, but that unit will be missing a key voice for the foreseeable future.
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During Friday’s news conference, Vrabel revealed that Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He’s currently in the process of determining what’ll be the best treatment plan for him.
“We want to send our regards and let everybody know publicly that’s what he’s dealing with,” Vrabel said. “When he’s ready to talk, he’ll talk. But we wanted to let you know that’s what’s going on.”
Jul 28, 2025; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel leaves the practice fields after training camp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn ImagesEric Canha-Imagn Images.
NFL fans rallying around Williams.
Immediately after Vrabel announced this heartbreaking news, NFL fans around the country offered their kind thoughts and prayers.
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“Football is big, but health is bigger,” one fan said. “Hoping Coach Williams beats this and comes back stronger.”
“So sad to hear this news,” a second fan commented. “Hopefully he gets the treatment he needs to beat it.”
“Keeping him and his family in my thoughts. Full recovery,” Pats Buzz wrote.
“Oh man, that’s really hard to hear. Hope his treatment goes well and he gets through this,” another fan said.
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Williams, who was an assistant for Vrabel on the Tennessee Titans from 2018-2023, missed rookie minicamp earlier this year due to health issues.
“Football is a job that obviously there is some stress involved. Just eating right. Working out. If you’re supposed to take any medication, take it. Like I told the players, we all think we’re invincible,” Williams told ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “I think a lot of times, when there are things you can prevent, and you don’t prevent them, that’s just not being smart. That’s what I’ve done the last couple of years, even longer. I’ve ignored doctors. I’ve ignored everyone and just kind of lived my life. While it was fun, I realize you have to take care of yourself. That’s what I’m doing.”
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Williams then suffered a medical scare at training camp. He collapsed on the sideline and was treated for dehydration.
We’re wishing Williams all the best in his battle against cancer.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.