Mike Vrabel is officially back in New England, but this time, as the Patriots’ new head coach. For fans who remember his glory days, it’s a full-circle moment for one of the most versatile and tough players to ever be in the Pats jersey. But before Vrabel became a top-tier coach, he carved out an incredible career as a player- especially during his time in Foxborough.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the playing days of the Patriots’ new head coach.
Mike Vrabel’s College Dominance At Ohio State
Before making waves in the NFL, Vrabel was a star at Ohio State. Playing from 1993 to 1996, he was a two-time All-American and the first-ever two-time winner of the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year award. His dominance in Columbus set the stage for an impressive professional career.
Drafted By Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Vrabel in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons with the team, appearing in 51 games but never starting. While his time in Pittsburgh didn’t showcase his full potential, it laid the groundwork for what was to come.
Patriots Glory: Where Mike Vrabel Became A Star?
Mike Vrabel signed with the New England Patriots in 2001, and his career took off. Over eight seasons in New England, he won three Super Bowls and became a cornerstone of Bill Belichick’s defense.
Vrabel played 125 games for the Patriots, starting 110 of them. He tallied 606 tackles (412 solo), 48 sacks, 55 tackles for loss, 13 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions, five fumble recoveries, and even scored one defensive touchdown.
Throwback to Tom Brady hitting Mike Vrabel in the EndZone for a Touchdown! pic.twitter.com/BVASjQ5YUA
— Patriots & Celtics (@Pats_and_Celts) January 14, 2025
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His impact extended to the postseason, where he totaled eight sacks, 84 tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and four tackles for loss in 17 playoff games.
But Vrabel wasn’t just a defensive weapon- he also made his mark as a red-zone target. He recorded 12 receptions in his career, all of them touchdowns, including a memorable score in Super Bowl XXXVIII.
In 2007, he earned a Pro Bowl nod during the Patriots’ historic undefeated regular season. His leadership, versatility, and playmaking ability made him a fan favorite and a Belichick favorite.
Final NFL Stop: Kansas City Chiefs
Mike Vrabel’s time with the Patriots ended when he was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs. He played two seasons in Kansas City, appearing in 30 games and recording two sacks. While his production slowed, Vrabel remained a respected veteran presence on the field.
When Vrabel retired after 14 seasons, his career totals included 206 games, 762 tackles (529 solo), 57 sacks, 63 tackles for loss, 19 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions, and nine fumble recoveries.
Transition To Coaching
Mike Vrabel wasted no time moving into coaching. He started at his alma mater, Ohio State, in 2011, and earned recognition as Big Ten Recruiter of the Year in 2012. In 2013, he joined the NFL coaching ranks with the Houston Texans, eventually becoming their defensive coordinator in 2017.
Lock & load 🫡 pic.twitter.com/aCtqEjiqCe
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) January 13, 2025
Vrabel got his first head-coaching job with the Tennessee Titans in 2018. Over five seasons, he led the Titans to a 54-45 regular-season record, three playoff appearances, and a 2-3 postseason record. His leadership and strategic acumen earned him widespread respect.
Coming Full Circle: Patriots Head Coach
Now, Mike Vrabel returns to the Patriots, this time as head coach. He inherits a team looking to rebound from a disappointing four-win season under Jerod Mayo. With his history of success as both a player and a coach, Vrabel brings hope for a brighter future in New England.
From his days as a dominant linebacker to his current role as a leader on the sidelines, Mike Vrabel’s journey has come full circle. Patriots fans have every reason to be excited about what’s next.
Also Read: Dallas Cowboys’ Early List Of New Head Coach Candidates Revealed
