Whether Aaron Rodgers returns to the New York Jets in 2025 depends a lot on the head coach that the franchise will choose. Former Tennessee Titans HC Mike Vrabel was considered to be the leading candidate for the job, but NFL insider Tom Pelissero reports that Tom Brady and Co. could throw a wrench in their plans for next season.
Mike Vrabel Could Be Lured Away From Aaron Rodgers and Jets With Tom Brady’s Influence
Only a week remains before the regular season ends. While the postseason action will keep fans and a handful of teams busy, the eliminated ones will have issues of their own to deal with.
Several franchises are in line to acquire a new head coach next season. The Jets, having fired Robert Saleh midway through this season, are in the hunt. The Las Vegas Raiders could also let go of Antonio Pierce and would be prime candidates to land Vrabel if so.
“A team that I would keep an eye on and an owner I would keep an eye on, having not made a decision on their current head coach who has won two straight games, but Las Vegas makes a lot of sense if they want to move on from Antonio Pierce,” said Pelissero on NFL Network.
From @gmfb: Breaking down some big names in the upcoming coaching carousel with @PSchrags — and one surprise name you may hear. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/t3dfHIiCu2
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 31, 2024
“Of course, Tom Brady is the new minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Vrabel has a very good relationship with Brady. He’s a possibility for that gig if they opt to move on from Pierce.”
Apart from Vrabel, former Jets head coach Rex Ryan is also considered a favorite to land the job. However, fans have vehemently opposed this potential hiring.
Vrabel was let go from the Titans after leading the team for six seasons. This season, Vrabel joined the Cleveland Browns as a coaching and personnel consultant. The 49-year-old is considered to be one of the hottest prospects in the coaching market by several experts.
As such, luring the three-time Super Bowl champion would not be easy. In addition to the Jets and the Raiders, the New York Giants have been reported to be keen on landing Vrabel. Some chatter has also been reported that he could return to the New England Patriots, this time as a head coach with Jerod Mayo falling out of favor.