New England Patriots - NESN.com
The firing of Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen might have a trickle-down effect on the Patriots.
And not only because New England will host New York in a Week 13 matchup next Monday night.
Prior to his two seasons as Big Blue’s defensive coordinator, Bowen worked under then-Titans head coach Mike Vrabel for six seasons (2018-2023). He initially was hired as an outside linebackers coach, but elevated to defensive coordinator for the second half of his tenure in Tennessee.
It’s caused some around the league, including Sports Illustrated’s NFL insider Albert Breer, to question whether Bowen could link back up with Vrabel.
“Bowen’s one of Mike Vrabel’s guys, so possible he lands in New England at some point,” Breer wrote on X on Monday.
When Vrabel was hired by the Patriots in January, Bowen was included in speculation as New England’s next defensive coordinator. He was under contract with the Giants at the time, however.
It prompted Vrabel to hire former Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams as his defensive coordinator. Williams, unfortunately, was diagnosed with prostate cancer early in the season. He still attends team meetings during the week, but does not call plays on gameday.
Patriots insider linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has served as the team’s de facto defensive coordinator since September. Vrabel has been complimentary of Kuhr since he stepped into the role.
But as Vrabel’s current staff has shown, the more experienced coaches the better.
