New England Patriots fans are preparing for Mike Vrabel’s homecoming. The former Tennessee Titans head coach is rumored to be the top man to take over the reins.
On this, Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski made his feelings clear on the matter. Gronk highlighted Vrabel’s positives that could lead Robert Kraft to hire him.
Rob Gronkowski Bats for Mike Vrabel To Take Over the Patriots’ Head Coaching Role
Vrabel and Gronkowski’s paths did not cross during their Patriots days as the former linebacker departed from the Patriots after the 2008 season; Gronk was drafted in 2010. However, that did not stop the former tight end from praising Vrabel.
During his appearance on “The Kay Adams Show,” Gronkowski dug into the mindset of Kraft that led him to fire Jerod Mayo and his affinity for Vrabel. “Mr. Kraft has to think that something else out there is better for the organization or else he would have never fired coach Jerod Mayo,” said Gronkowski.
Is Mike Vrabel to the Patriots a forgone conclusion???@RobGronkowski says it's looking that way 👀🔊@heykayadams @Patriots @CoachVrabel50 pic.twitter.com/GCZfRzB0B2
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) January 9, 2025
“He said it was one of the toughest firings he ever had to do, one of the toughest situations because everyone loves Jerod Mayo…”
“But obviously at the coaching point, you are trying to win as an organization,” Gronkowski later added. “You are trying to get the best coach in there to do that and get the wins, get back to the playoffs as a team.”
“So, Mr. Kraft must feel like there is a better option out there. A guy like Mike Vrabel, who’s a proven coach, who’s been with the Tennessee Titans and did a great job there.”
Vrabel led the Titans from 2018 to 2023. He took the franchise to the playoffs on three occasions and lifted the AFC South crown twice. Vrabel ended his stint with a 54-45 record and a win percentage of 54.5%.
Vrabel Is in Demand To Be Head Coach Across the NFL
While the Patriots have a nostalgic link to Vrabel, they aren’t the only ones gunning for his services. Per several reports, the 49-year-old has been interviewed by the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets.
The three-time Super Bowl champion also has an interview lined up with the New Orleans Saints. But before that, Vrabel has an interview with the Patriots front office on Thursday. Only time will tell whether he’ll be able to land the job.