Important Patriots Coach Named Flight Risk With Mike Vrabel Taking Over

The New England Patriots officially kickstarted a new era on Sunday when they named Mike Vrabel the 16th head coach in franchise history. The player-turned-coach did a great job at turning the Tennessee Titans around a few years ago and the hope is that he can have the same impact during his return to New England.

As Vrabel decides on what his coaching staff will look like, several coaches from last year's team are still under contract. Although the 49-year-old bench boss could decide to retain a name or two, one Patriots coach is being listed as a top flight risk by one NFL insider.

Patriots News: OC Alex Van Pelt to Leave New England?

On Monday, NFL insider Albert Breer listed offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt as one coach who could leave New England in the coming weeks. If that's the case, a reunion with the Cleveland Browns appears to be the likeliest scenario.

"(The Browns could) bring back Alex Van Pelt in another role," Breer wrote. "Van Pelt is incredibly well-liked from his time in Cleveland, did a good job with really shaky talent in New England this fall and was a huge part of developing Patriots rookie Drake Maye."

On one hand, some Patriots fans wouldn't exactly be sad to see Van Pelt go.

After being instrumental to the Cleveland Browns' top-10 offense in 2023, Van Pelt couldn't replicate those results in New England. Although the team's abysmal offensive performance wasn't entirely his fault, a fresh start could be needed after the Patriots only averaged 17.0 points (30th) and 291.9 total yards (31st) per game under his watch.

On the other hand, Van Pelt played a key role in the rookie quarterback's improvements as the season progressed.

By the time his first NFL campaign ended, Maye finished with 2,276 passing yards, 15 touchdowns to 10 interceptions, and an 88.1 passer rating while converting 54 carries into 421 rushing yards and another two scores. It remains to be seen how Van Pelt's potential exit would impact Maye's development going forward.

At the end of the day, Vrabel and the Patriots might be willing to give Van Pelt another season to prove himself. Not only because of his relationship with Maye but also because the 54-year-old didn't necessarily have the best opportunity to display his capabilities under first-year HC Jerod Mayo.

Perhaps coordinator under a proven coach like Vrabel will bring out the best in Van Pelt.

Look for the Patriots to provide more clarity regarding their coaching staff before the NFL free agency period opens on Wednesday, March 12.

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