Patriots introduce Mike Vrabel as 16th head coach

FOXBORO, Mass. — The New England Patriots will introduce Mike Vrabel as their 16th head coach during a press conference on Monday.

The team announced on social media on Sunday the New England Patriots Hall of Famer will be returning to the Patriots as their new head coach just a week after the abrupt firing of first-year head coach Jerod Mayo.

Vrabel, a former three-time Super Bowl-winning linebacker with the Patriots, will be tasked with turning around a team that finished 4-13 in the 2024 season.

Vrabel joined the Patriots as a free agent in 2001 and was with the team through 2008. His career also included time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Former teammate and Patriots Center Dan Koppen told Boston 25 News said selecting Vrabel for the head coaching position was the most obvious and logical decision for the organization.

“He was a smart player, he was fundamentally sound, he was a team guy, always willing to do the dirty work or play a different position, go on offense go on special teams,” said former Patriots Center Dan Koppen. “You know he just loves the game of football and he’s one of those guys where he was sort of get the respect of his teammates but can, he’s a leader. He’s a leader and guys will follow him.”

Vrabel’s most recent head coaching experience was with the Tennessee Titans from 2018-2023, where he compiled a 54-45 record, including 3 playoff appearances, an AFC Championship Game appearance, and an AP Coach of the Year award in the 2021-22 NFL season.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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