New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams recently experienced a health scare that has required him to work remotely from his home in Detroit on doctor’s orders for the past few weeks. Mike Vrabel broke the news on Friday prior to Patriots rookie mini camp kicking off.

After practice, Williams spoke to the media via Zoom and addressed his health. Williams confirmed he had a “medical scare” but emphasized that he is “doing good” and remains actively involved with the team despite being away from the facility. He has been in regular communication with Vrabel, the coaching staff, and the players.

“I want to make it clear, I’m away from the building, but I’m not away from the team.” Williams also thanked doctors, nurses and therapists who have managed his care and rehabilitation.

While the specific nature of his health condition has not been disclosed, Williams referred to it as a “wake-up call” and highlighted the importance of prioritizing one’s health.

“We all have different stress levels. 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 added: “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.”

In his absence, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has been handling Williams’ responsibilities. The team has expressed support for Williams, and he has conveyed his eagerness to return to the facility when cleared by his doctors.

In regards to Kuhr running the defense in Williams absence, both Williams and Vrabel gave him a ringing endorsement.

“A lot of this stuff was planned out, I think, as far as just the installation and the things that we were going to do” said Vrabel. “So, from that sort of thing, we did all that as a staff. It just felt like Zak has great knowledge of what we’ve done here in the past with me, this system and with Terrell.”

As for Williams, there is no current timetable for his return to the team in person.