-- The New England Patriots are hiring inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr as their defensive coordinator, sources tell ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. With Kuhr in a leading role, the Patriots' defense played some of its best football in the playoffs and was critical in the team's surprise run to Super Bowl LX. Late last week, the team elevated Williams to a higher-ranking role on staff, opening the defensive coordinator position. Kuhr, 37, had drawn rave reviews from Williams at Super Bowl LX. At the Super Bowl, Vrabel also acknowledged Kuhr's work.