Mike Vrabel started a new job Monday, but he wasn’t in a new environment.
Robert Kraft and the Patriots officially introduced Vrabel as New England’s new head coach a 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.
Shortly after speaking with reporters at Gillette Stadium, Vrabel sent a message to New England fans who supported him for nearly a decade in the 2000s.
“Pats Nation, this is Coach Vrabel. I’m excited to be back,” Vrabel said in a video posted to the Patriots’ social media channels. “No football helmet, no pads, but I will have a whistle and a helmet. We will deliver something that you will be proud of.
Although actions speak louder than words, New England fans shouldn’t doubt Vrabel’s promise much. 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, Massachusetts.
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It certainly won’t be an easy task to take New England from one of the worst in the NFL to a legitimate contender. But Vrabel is clearly eager for the challenge.