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Patriots DC Williams cancer-free, will travel with team to Super Bowl LX

Boston Globe / Getty

New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams received a clean bill of health after a four-month battle with prostate cancer, he told the Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan.

Williams will travel with the team to Santa Clara for Super Bowl LX.

Williams stepped away from the Patriots in early September after receiving the diagnosis. Zak Kuhr, New England's inside linebacker coach, has been the defensive play-caller in Williams' absence.

"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. I appreciate those guys," Williams said.

"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."

Williams added: "Hopefully we can bring a smile to their faces on Sunday."

The 51-year-old was a constant presence at the Patriots' facility throughout his recovery, frequently attending meetings and staying in touch with players.

Head coach Mike Vrabel told the team Williams was cancer-free before their divisional-round victory over the Houston Texans.

"It means everything," Patriots linebacker Christian Elliss said, according to Callahan. "He's a great coach, he's a great man. He's been one of my biggest supporters all year."

New England's defense has been lights out in the playoffs, surrendering just 26 points in three contests. They've also allowed just 3.3 yards per play with eight takeaways and one defensive touchdown.

The Patriots will look to secure their seventh Lombardi Trophy with a victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Feb. 8.

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