Patriots Icon Julian Edelman Pinpoints Key To Mike Vrabel’s Coaching Success
'Guys are buying in'
Julian Edelman helped explain what makes Mike Vrabel the ideal New England Patriots head coach.
Vrabel has guided New England back to the playoffs in his first season, leading his old franchise to a 12-3 record before Sunday’s game against the New York Jets. The former Super Bowl champion hasn’t exactly mimicked Bill Belichick’s coaching process.
Edelman discussed Vrabel’s coaching success on “Fox NFL Sunday.” The Super Bowl LIII MVP believes the 50-year-old has simultaneously earned his players’ respect and admiration through his emotional intelligence.
“He knows how to hold guys accountable while connecting with them,” Edelman said. “It’s like a really good evolution of what the ‘Patriot Way’ was. Holding guys accountable, but also having the EQ to connect with everyone.”
Players know the three-time Super Bowl champion has flourished under Belichick’s “Patriot Way,” but Vrabel has also built a strong rapport with his squad.
“You see him after the game. He greets every guy, and everyone seems like they have a relationship with him,” Edelman added. “But you know a guy that’s been through the system that he’s preaching will still get up on you if you’re not doing your job. Guys are buying in. That’s why it’s working.”
Rob Gronkowski also believes Vrabel has delivered a championship mentality back to Foxborough, Mass.
“He brings that winning culture and mindset to the table, to the organization,” Gronkowski said. “He’s got the guys gelling together. He knows how to bring the offense, the defense, the special teams together so they can play complementary football. No-nonsense guy.”
Vrabel has the Patriots on the doorstep of an AFC East championship. They can clinch on Sunday with a win over the Jets and a Buffalo Bills loss.
