By Ryan Costello, ’27

Staff Writer

After the New England Patriots finished 4-13 in the 2024-25 season, many people demanded changes in the franchise. The former Patriots linebacker, Jerod Mayo, named coach after the departure of fixture Bill Belichick, was criticized by fans throughout the season. Many fans were upset with Mayo in Week 18 after the Patriots beat the Buffalo Bills, 23-16, causing them to give up their number one draft pick and drop to number four. Mayo was fired soon after, with Patriots CEO Robert Kraft saying, “I felt guilty” and “I put him in an untenable situation.”

Kraft tapped another Patriots alum to replace Mayo, former linebacker Mike Vrabel. People think Vrabel has the experience for the job considering he has been the linebackers coach for the Houston Texans and the head coach for the Tennessee Titans. During his time playing as a Patriot, he became a three-time Super Bowl champion. People are also eager to see what he can do with quarterback Drake Maye’s second year with the team.

Fans have been frustrated with the Patriots and their lack of playoff success in the years since Tom Brady left. Vrabel has a good reputation for leadership, principle, and an ability to bring out the best in his players. He has strong knowledge for game management and an instinct for decision making. He is good at making important strategic calls, especially when the stakes are high.

With a new head coach, fans are feeling optimistic for the future. Now all we have to do is see how the draft in April plays out. With some good moves, hopefully next season will give fans more to cheer about.