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In one of the most surprising moves of the early NFL coaching cycle, the Tennessee Titans have fired head coach Mike Vrabel after six seasons.
No sooner did the first reports of Vrabel’s dismissal break did people begin predicting his next job: head coach of the New England Patriots.
Vrabel starred for the Pats from 2001-08, winning three Super Bowls and earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2007.
“The No. 1 available head coach is now Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots player and coach. He could move to NE if Bill Belichick is not retained following his meetings with owner Robert Kraft,” suggested ESPN’s Ed Werder.
The No. 1 available head coach is now Mike Vrabel, a former Patriots player and coach. He could move to NE if Bill Belichick is not retained following his meetings with owner Robert Kraft. https://t.co/5AeJNADQrL
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) January 9, 2024
“This should force the hand of the Patriots to do the uncomfortable. Part ways with Belichick and hire Vrabel in New England,” said ESPN’s Peter Burns.
This should force the hand of the Patriots to do the uncomfortable.
Part ways with Belichick and hire Vrabel in New England. https://t.co/vq2WgDVHsI
— Peter Burns (@PeterBurnsESPN) January 9, 2024
“Mike Vrabel, YOU are a New England Patriot,” said NFL YouTuber Brett Kollmann.
Mike Vrabel, YOU are a New England Patriot
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) January 9, 2024
“Mike Vrabel, congratulations and welcome to the New England Patriots,” chimed in Christopher Harris of HarrisFootball.com.
Mike Vrabel, congratulations and welcome to the New England Patriots.
— Christopher Harris (@HarrisFootball) January 9, 2024
Meanwhile, Patriots beat writer Zack Cox shared Vrabel’s own words when he was inducted into the Patriots’ Ring of Honor in October.
Mike Vrabel to Patriots fans in October: “I want you not to take this organization for granted. I’ve been a lot of places. This is a special place with great leadership, great fans, great direction, great coaching.
“Enjoy it. It’s not like this everywhere.”
— Zack Cox (@ZackCoxNESN) January 9, 2024
The Patriots have not yet announced a decision on Bill Belichick’s status for 2024, but one should be coming soon.
Perhaps news of Vrabel’s availability will compel New England to expedite the process.