Titans writer explains what went wrong for Mike Vrabel in Tennessee
Feb 6, 2025
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Jim Wyatt, a seasoned writer for the Tennessean, provides insider analysis on Mike Vrabel's tumultuous time with the Titans. He discusses what went wrong in the last 24 games, including whether players tuned out Vrabel's tough coaching style. Former cornerback Logan Ryan shares insights from his playing days under Vrabel and reveals the type of player Vrabel will target in New England. They touch on the challenges of player consistency, Jerod Mayo's struggles, and the potential impact of injuries on team dynamics.
Mike Vrabel's demanding coaching style, while previously effective, became overwhelming for some Titans players, contributing to his dismissal.
Despite recent struggles, there is optimism that Vrabel can quickly rebuild the Patriots by fostering a strong team culture and communication.
Deep dives
Mike Vrabel's Coaching Style
Mike Vrabel is recognized for his hard-nosed coaching style, which emphasizes discipline and high expectations. He is known to build rapport with players, addressing them candidly while maintaining strict standards. His hands-on approach is effective, as he actively engages with players during practice, demonstrating techniques while also motivating them. Despite some players feeling overwhelmed by his demanding style, many respect Vrabel's commitment to excellence and ability to foster camaraderie within the team.
Challenges Faced by the Titans
The Tennessee Titans struggled in their recent seasons, highlighted by a dismal record of 6 out of 24 games lost. Key injuries, particularly to star players like Derrick Henry and Ryan Tannehill, contributed to their decline, impacting the team's overall performance. The pressure of sustaining high performance amidst these injuries took a toll on the team's morale and effectiveness on the field. This situation ultimately led to the team's decision to part ways with Vrabel, despite his previous successes, like leading them to the AFC Championship game.
Expectation Management with Players
A critical aspect of Vrabel's coaching is how he manages players' expectations, nurturing talent while holding them accountable. He is noted for treating players according to their contributions to the team, which helps maintain a collective focus on team goals rather than individual egos. This approach has led to successful outcomes for several players, including Ryan Tannehill and Derrick Henry, who thrived under his leadership. By insisting that every player earn their spot, Vrabel creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages growth and resilience.
The Future of the Patriots Under Vrabel
As Mike Vrabel transitions to coaching the New England Patriots, there is optimism about his ability to foster a successful team culture. His history of maximizing players' potential suggests he can rebuild the Patriots into a competitive force quickly, especially if they secure a strong quarterback like Drake May. The focus will be on developing a cohesive unit, emphasizing communication and teamwork, which are essential for overcoming challenges in the highly competitive NFL landscape. If successful, Vrabel could establish a new era of resilience and success for the Patriots.
Tom E. Curran is live from radio row at the Super Bowl in New Orleans with a pair of fresh interviews. First, Tom welcomes Titans senior writer Jim Wyatt to get his perspective on Mike Vrabel's time in Tennessee. Then, former Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan joins Tom to share his thoughts on playing for Mike Vrabel, Drake Maye, Jerod Mayo, and more!
2:40- How quickly can Mike Vrabel turn things around in New England?
6:20- Do the Titans or their fans regret moving on from Vrabel? What went wrong for the head coach in his final 24 games with the team?
9:35- Did Titans players ultimately tune Vrabel's tough-coaching style out towards the end?
15:50- Logan Ryan breaks down the type of player Vrabel will be looking for in New England
20:20- Ryan shares his thoughts on Drake Maye and what went wrong for Jerod Mayo as Patriots head coach