The New England Patriots officially introduced Mike Vrabel as the franchise's 16th head coach during a press conference at Gillette Stadium today. The 2021 NFL Coach of the Year takes the helm of the team, marking a new chapter in Patriots history.
Who is Mike Vrabel?
Vrabel, a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, has long been recognized for his contributions both on and off the field. Voted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2023, Vrabel is celebrated as one of the franchise's most versatile linebackers and regarded as one of the best free-agent signings in team history.
With 14 years of coaching experience, Vrabel’s career includes 11 seasons in the NFL and three years at Ohio State. In 2018, he became the head coach of the Tennessee Titans.
During his six seasons with the Titans, Vrabel led the team to two division titles and three playoff appearances. In 2019, Vrabel's Titans shocked the Patriots in the Wild Card round in Foxborough, and then pulled off an upset over the top-seeded Ravens in Baltimore, advancing to the AFC Championship Game. Although the Titans were ultimately defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs, the team’s strong run was a testament to Vrabel’s coaching prowess.
In 2021, the Titans secured the top seed in the AFC with a 12-5 record, earning Vrabel the NFL Coach of the Year honor.
From Player to Coach
Vrabel’s NFL journey began in 1997 when he was drafted in the third round of the NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. After spending four years with the Steelers, where he primarily contributed on special teams and as a reserve linebacker, Vrabel joined the Patriots in 2001. During his eight seasons in New England, Vrabel became an integral part of the team’s dynastic success, contributing to three Super Bowl titles in just four years (2001, 2003, and 2004). Known for his positional versatility, Vrabel played both inside and outside linebacker, contributed on special teams, and even lined up on offense in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
He made a lasting impact on the field, with eight regular-season receptions and two more in the playoffs—all of which resulted in touchdowns. Notably, Vrabel caught touchdowns in back-to-back Super Bowls, including victories over the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl XXXVIII and the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX. His stellar 2007 season earned him Pro Bowl and First-Team Associated Press All-Pro honors.
That year, the Patriots made history as the first team in NFL history to win 18 consecutive games in a single season. Vrabel’s leadership also helped the Patriots set multiple NFL and franchise-record win streaks, including 21 consecutive wins (2003-04), 21 consecutive regular-season wins (2006-08), 21 straight home victories (2002-05), and 10 consecutive playoff wins (2001-05). In the 2006 season, Vrabel was a key player in helping the Patriots defense allow just 14.8 points per game, a franchise record at the time.
A Coaching Journey
Vrabel retired from playing in 2011 after a 14-year career in the NFL, which also included stints with the Kansas City Chiefs (2009-2010). He transitioned to coaching immediately after retirement, starting as the linebackers coach at Ohio State in 2011. He later served as the defensive line coach for the Buckeyes for two seasons (2012-2013). In 2014, Vrabel joined the Houston Texans as their linebackers coach and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2017.
Following his six seasons as the Titans' head coach (2018-2023), Vrabel spent the 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns as a coaching and personnel consultant, further cementing his extensive coaching resume.
Vrabel's Legacy and Impact
Vrabel’s appointment as the 16th head coach in New England Patriots history marks the beginning of a new era for the team. With his extensive experience and proven track record in both coaching and playing, Vrabel is poised to bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the Patriots as they aim to return to championship contention.