Could the Patriots transition directly from one former linebacker as head coach to another? It seems like a realistic possibility in their search for a new leader.
Mike Vrabel is widely regarded as the frontrunner to replace Jerod Mayo, who was recently dismissed. While it remains to be seen if the Patriots Hall of Famer will return, it’s easy to understand why the organization holds him in high regard, given his strong ties to the team and his coaching track record.
Let’s delve deeper into why Vrabel could be an appealing candidate for New England. As head coach of the Tennessee Titans, he achieved notable success early on, including leading the team to an AFC Championship appearance in the 2019 playoffs.
However, his later seasons were less successful, with no postseason wins in his final four years and back-to-back seasons without playoff qualification. Following a disappointing 6-11 campaign in 2023, Vrabel was dismissed by the Titans.
In 2024, Vrabel did not land another head coaching role but instead worked as a consultant for the Browns, focusing on coaching and personnel. His contract expired in December, making him available again as a coaching free agent.
Would Vrabel be a strong hire for the Patriots, and what can fans expect? He’d likely be a solid choice. The biggest question is who he’d bring in to run the offense and what system he’d allow them to implement.
During his time with the Titans, the team leaned heavily on a run-first approach, centered around Derrick Henry. Even when Henry was unavailable or underperforming, Vrabel seemed reluctant to adjust. That said, Vrabel is an exceptional culture builder who can unify the team and instill a clear identity in their style of play.
