Belichick's Support: Vrabel's New Role in New England

New England, USATue Jan 14 2025
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Mike Vrabel, a former New England Patriots player, is the latest to step into a major coaching role with the team. Unlike Jerod Mayo, who took Bill Belichick’s job previously, Vrabel’s return has been greeted with high praise from Belichick himself. After eight seasons playing under Belichick, Vrabel has proved his coaching prowess, notably during his six-year stint with the Tennessee Titans. Belichick’s endorsement is not new. He has been following Vrabel’s coaching career since his days at Ohio State and later with the Titans. On "The Pat McAfee Show, " Belichick expressed his admiration for Vrabel’s approach to the game. Teams coached by Vrabel reflect his playing style—intelligent, competitive, and tough. Vrabel, now 49, shares a special bond with Belichick, which he mentioned during his first press conference as the Patriots' new head coach. He won’t mimic Belichick’s style but acknowledges the respect between them. This deep respect has Belichick rooting for Vrabel’s success in his old coaching spot. Belichick believes Vrabel’s teams embody the same traits he admired as a player.