The Patriots reportedly have made Zak Kuhr the permanent defensive coordinator, removing the interim designation. (New England Patriots photo)

The New England Patriots were a strong defensive team all season long, and now interim defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr is reaping the benefits – besides a Super Bowl appearance, of course.

Kuhr had the interim tag removed on Tuesday according to multiple reports, a move made possible when the team promoted head coach Mike Vrabel’s original choice as DC, Terrell Williams, to a senior coaching position. Reports also say Vinny DePalma will take Kuhr’s spot as inside linebackers coach.

Kuhr, 37, originally the Patriots inside linebacker coach, had to take over the defense for Williams early in the season when the veteran assistant underwent treatment for prostate cancer. Williams is now cancer free and was with the team during Super Bowl LX although Kuhr ran the defense.

The Patriots allowed just 18.8 points in the regular season – fourth in the NFL – and 12 points per game in the post season and were solid all season, especially against the run – until the Super Bowl. New England however had 13 sacks in four postseason games, and just three passing TDs.

Kuhr was with Vrabel in Tennessee and in the season before Vrabel was hired in New England, he was a defensive assistant with the New York Giants.

“He quickly grew as a coach,” Vrabel said of Kuhr during the season.