The New England Patriots could target free-agent defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike in free agency, following the hiring of new defensive coordinator Terrell Williams.
The arrival of Terrell Williams as defensive coordinator suggests that the Patriots are preparing for significant changes on defense. One possible move is to bring in Onwuzurike, a former player under Williams with the Detroit Lions.
Onwuzurike is a strong candidate to join the team, as he had a standout season in 2024, ranking T-14th in pressures (47) and T-18th in pass rush win rate (11.9%) under Williams.
This potential move makes sense given the defensive shifts Williams is expected to implement, drawing from his time working with head coach Mike Vrabel in Tennessee, where defensive tackle play was crucial.
Levi Onwuzurike’s Success with Terrell Williams
The Patriots hired Williams due to his impressive ability to develop interior defensive linemen. Williams has worked with top-tier players like Richard Seymour, Ndamukong Suh, and Jeffery Simmons, all of whom thrived under his coaching.
Onwuzurike may not be in the same league as those stars, but the 26-year-old has shown significant growth under Williams, excelling in both pass rush and run defense this season. His technique improvements were evident, including using a swat and swim move to sack Rams guard Steve Avila in Week 1.
Onwuzurike’s increased health after battling a back issue also contributed to his ability to split gaps and disrupt the pocket. His strength, combined with improved technique, made him an effective run defender, evidenced by his strong play against the Buccaneers’ Tristan Wirfs.
These plays demonstrate Onwuzurike’s comfort with Williams and their rapport, which could form the foundation for a new defensive scheme in New England.
Patriots Defensive Shift Ahead
The Patriots are set to make significant changes to their defensive front, particularly in their line play. The team plans to move away from the traditional three-man fronts and two-gap techniques.
Williams and Vrabel primarily ran four-down defensive lines (4-2-5 nickel) during their time with the Titans. This approach involved one-gap mechanics on run defense, with a three-technique defensive tackle and a nose tackle in the opposite A-Gap.
The defensive ends often played wider, in either a seven or nine technique. This approach focused on penetrating the offensive line rather than holding the point of attack.
The implications of these changes for defensive tackles are notable. The Patriots previously favored large, space-eating tackles like 330-pound Davon Godchaux, but Williams and Vrabel prefer smaller, more disruptive players like Onwuzurike, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 304 pounds.
Onwuzurike is projected to secure a two-year, $16.5 million contract with $10 million guaranteed, a reasonable investment for the Patriots, who have ample salary cap space. This move would provide a perfect fit for the new defensive scheme under Williams.
