New England Patriots - NESN.com
Mike Vrabel’s former employer made a major sideline move before Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots.
The Tennessee Titans fired head coach Brian Callahan on Monday amid a 1-5 start. Vrabel’s replacement lasted just 23 games, registering as many wins (four) as the Patriots have this season.
Vrabel told reporters Wednesday, per the team’s official transcript, that he kept his attention on his squad after learning the news.
“I just had a focus here,” Callahan said. “And again, the surprises in our business shouldn’t be surprises. Things happen in this league, and that’s a decision that they made. I didn’t have a particular reaction to it other than trying to get ready for the game on Sunday.”
However, Vrabel confirmed that he reached out to Callahan after the announcement. He recalled his experience when losing the same job after the 2023 season.
“I don’t want to see anybody that shares a job with you get let go,” Vrabel said. “That’s a tough feeling with family and school. Whether it’s in college or pro, we’re in the media every single day. And there’s a human element to this that I don’t want to forget. I just remember all those coaches or people that reached out after I was let go. I think that that’s important because nobody texts when you lose, they all text when you win. So, it’s a good reminder.”
The timing poses an interesting challenge for Vrabel, who must now prepare for a Titans team led by interim head coach Mike McCoy. He’ll have the Patriots ready for “everything” when they meet Sunday at Nissan Stadium.
“We’ll have to be prepared for whatever it is, try to execute the keys and try to – all the things that we feel like are important each and every week,” Vrabel said. “So, there’s no way to know.”
