New Patriots Linebacker Makes Admission About Coach Mike Vrabel

The Patriots added linebacker Bradyn Swinson with the 146th pick in the 2025 NFL draft.

Swinson is an athletic edge rusher who flew under the radar in a deep defensive class. The LSU product led the Tigers in sacks (8 1/2), tackles for loss (13), and pressures (59) last season, ranking fifth in the FBS.

Despite having contact with the Patriots twice before being drafted by the six-time Super Bowl champions, Swinson didn’t do his homework on his new coach. He admitted to members of the New England media that he was unaware of the position Mike Vrabel played during his 14-year NFL career when he was asked if he had seen highlights of the three-time Super Bowl champion.

“All right, you all need to send me a link to that,” Swinson told reporters during a virtual press conference on Saturday. “I didn’t even know he played there at my position. I’ve known a little bit about him when he was at the Titans and everything.

“I know he’s a good guy. I got to talk to him today when I got the phone call. That’s probably when I shed tears, when I heard his voice. Looking forward to it. Send me that link. If you all can, send me the link to watch it. I want to see some of his clips so I’m on my game by the time I get up there.”

It’s pretty much a guarantee that by the time Swinson makes his way to Gillette Stadium for the first time, he’ll be able to break down film of Vrabel’s best tackles with his new coaches.