Report: Mike Vrabel’s Chances of Retiring, Joining Ohio State Coaching Staff Are ‘Very Good’

Former Patriot Mike Vrabel made a name for himself on both sides of the ball during his time in New England — as a Pro Bowl linebacker and a touchdown specialist at tight end.

He may also be beginning a new career on the sideline as well, as he is reportedly a likely candidate to join the coaching staff of his alma mater, The Ohio State University, in the fall, according to NBC Sports.

Luke Ficknell‘s promotion to head coach following Jim Tressel‘s resignation in May opened up a defensive coaching position on the Buckeye staff, and College Football Talk reports that there is a “very good chance” that Vrabel — Ficknell’s teammate and roommate during their days at Ohio State — will be brought on to fill the vacancy.

Vrabel, who has spent the past two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs after being traded by the Patriots in 2009, is currently still in the NFL, and will be a free agent when the lockout lifts.

He is expected to announce his retirement and his intent to accept the Ohio State position — an announcement university sources say could come as early as Monday.