Mike Vrabel started a new job Monday, but he wasn’t in new surroundings.
Robert Kraft and the Patriots formally introduced Vrabel as New England’s new head coach one day after announcing the hiring. The union marked a homecoming for Vrabel, who played eight seasons with the Patriots and helped the franchise win its first three Super Bowl championships.
Not long after speaking with reporters at Gillette Stadium, Vrabel sent a message to the New England fan base that supported him for nearly a decade in the 2000s.
“Pats Nation, this is Coach Vrabel. Excited to be back,” Vrabel said in a video posted to the Patriots’ social media channels. “No football helmet, no pads, but I’ll be having a whistle and a headset. We’re gonna put something out there that you guys are proud of.”
While actions speak louder than words, New England fans shouldn’t be very dubious about Vrabel’s promise. The former linebacker was successful at every coaching stop he made before returning to the Patriots, and he appears to have a clear vision for righting the ship in Foxboro, Mass.
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It certainly won’t be an easy task to turn New England from one of the NFL’s worst to a legitimate contender. But Vrabel clearly is eager to take on the challenge.
Featured image via Eric Canha/Imagn Images
