Mike Vrabel receives well-deserved career honor
Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel receives the ultimate honor for his playing days in New England.
According to a Wednesday release, Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel has been elected to the New England Patriots Hall of Fame after a fan vote.
Vrabel spent eight seasons in New England from 2001-2008. Over those years, Vrabel won three Super Bowls and was named to one All-Pro team and one Pro Bowl. In 110 starts as a Patriot, Vrabel posted 148 sacks, 55 tackles for loss, 13 forced fumbles and 11 interceptions.
More than anything, Vrabel was known for his toughness and clutch playoff performances in New England.
Vrabel was one of three finalists nominated for induction, the others being former head coach Bill Parcells and offensive guard Logan Mankins. But after a fan vote, it is Vrabel who will become the 34th member of the Patriots Hall of Fame.
The following is a statement from Patriots owner Robert Kraft on Vrabel's contributions to the organization:
“Mike’s leadership and versatility were principal to one of the most successful eras in franchise history, propelling the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in four years and establishing multiple NFL records for consecutive-game win streaks. Many Patriots players have made contributions in all three phases of the game, but none more significantly than Mike.
He was an eight-year starter on defense who also regularly contributed on special teams and is the only player in NFL history to score touchdowns on his first 10 career receptions, including touchdowns in back-to-back Super Bowl victories.
He was respected for his football intellect and was destined to become a head coach in this league. I look forward to welcoming him back to New England, where his induction will preserve his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.”
Vrabel is well on his way to leaving a similar legacy in Tennessee to the one he left behind in New England.
The Titans are lucky enough to have one of the best coaches in the game who invests in his players, embodies toughness, and looks to compete each and every year.
Being remembered for his time with the Patriots is a well-deserved honor for one of the best football people in the game.
