The New England Patriots have named Mike Vrabel as their new head coach, and Bill Belichick, the legendary coach who preceded him, has given Vrabel his full endorsement.
Belichick, who coached Vrabel during his playing career with the Patriots, praised Vrabel’s coaching style and preparation, saying, “I think teams that he’s coached and the positions he’s coached follow very much in his playing style and his preparation style.”
Appearing on ESPN’s Pat McAfee Show, Belichick added, “I love Mike. I love everything that he stands for as a football coach, and I have a lot of respect for him. I’m sure he’ll do a great job.”
Vrabel, who played for the Patriots from 2000 to 2008 and won three Super Bowls, was introduced as the team’s new coach on Monday. He emphasized that he’s his own man and won’t try to replicate Belichick’s coaching style.
“I’m not Bill, and I’m not Bill Cowher,” Vrabel said. “I’m not anyone other than me. I’ve taken those experiences, and I’ve tried to form what I believe is critical to the success of a football team and an organization.”
Vrabel, who previously coached the Tennessee Titans for six seasons, said his goals for the Patriots include winning the AFC East, hosting home playoff games, and competing for championships.
With Belichick’s endorsement and Vrabel’s own vision for the team, Patriots fans are eagerly awaiting the new era of football in New England.