Former Tennessee Titans head coach and current Cleveland Browns coaching and personnel consultant Mike Vrabel is reportedly gaining significant attention around the league as a potential head-coaching candidate for the 2025 cycle. Dianna Russini of Moneyline notes that as owners assess the roster of successful head coaches, it is the culture-builders who are capturing their interest, showcasing the likes of Dan Campbell, Mike Tomlin, and Raheem Morris. Vrabel, a former player himself, is recognized for his ability to unify a locker room while maintaining accountability among his players.
During his tenure as head coach of the Titans from 2018 to 2023, Vrabel led the team to three playoff appearances and compiled a record of 54 wins against 45 losses. The Titans were characterized by a physical style of play, notably driven by a potent rushing attack led by star running back Derrick Henry. As teams begin to shift their coaching philosophies for the upcoming 2025 season, there is increasing interest in a more physical brand of football, with Vrabel's coaching style aligning well with these emerging trends. Notably, a decision-maker from a team considering a coaching change recently emphasized the importance of a strong rushing foundation, drawing parallels to successful franchises such as the Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles.
Vrabel's success with the Titans included leading the team to the 2019 AFC Championship Game and securing a pair of AFC South titles in 2020 and 2021, along with earning the AFC's No. 1 seed in 2021. Although Vrabel's final seasons with the Titans yielded disappointing records of 7-10 and 6-11, his earlier accomplishments are likely to overshadow this downturn. Having played as an NFL linebacker for 14 years and winning three Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, Vrabel’s experience and track record position him favorably for potential roles. With openings already available in teams such as the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, both of whom have made head coaching changes this season, it appears Vrabel’s time away from a head coaching role may only last a single year.
