Chowder and Champions
Fansided

Key Patriots Defender Shares Notable First Impression of Mike Vrabel

Now that HC Mike Vrabel has had time to meet his players, one of the New England Patriots key defenders has shared his thoughts on his new coach.

By Devon Platana

Mike Vrabel addresses the media at a press conference to announce his hiring as the new head coach of the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Mike Vrabel addresses the media at a press conference to announce his hiring as the new head coach of the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images / Eric Canha-Imagn Images
facebooktwitterreddit

The New England Patriots officially entered a new era when Mike Vrabel was named the 16th head coach in franchise history. The former Patriots linebacker-turned-coach worked wonders during his time with the Tennessee Titans and the hope is that he can have a similar impact in New England.

A defensive-minded coach, Patriots fans are curious to see how Vrabel's arrival will impact the team's defenders. Although New England's defense was solid last season, several players on that side of the ball left much to be desired — including safety Kyle Dugger.

Patriots News: Kyle Dugger Shares Thoughts on Mike Vrabel

On Friday, Dugger talked to Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan about various topics, including Vrabel's hiring. Even though the duo didn't have a lengthy discussion, the former Lenoir-Rhyne product made it clear that he's a fan of his new coach's positive outlook.

"From the small talk we had and (Vrabel's) energy, he seems like a genuine dude that wants to come in, win, and put us in the position to do so, which is all I can hope as a player," Dugger said. I'm excited to move forward."

It understandable why Dugger is thrilled to have Vrabel behind the bench going forward.

The ex-2020 second-rounder went from playing under future Hall of Famer coach Bill Belichick in his first four seasons to dealing with first-year HC Jerod Mayo last year. The coaching change impacted players across the roster, including Dugger, who had one of his more underwhelming performances.

The 28-year-old DB was one of the Patriots' most frustrating defenders to watch as he finished the year with a 44.3 defense grade on Pro Football Focus — third-worst among eligible safeties. He also finished with the worst coverage grade at his position (34.8) after allowing 36 catches on 46 targets for 387 yards, six touchdowns, and a 141.3 passer rating.

Hopefully, Vrabel's presence helps Dugger get back on track. The veteran defender signed a four-year extension worth up to $66 million with the Patriots last April and it's in the team's best interest to help him rebound so that he can finally live up to his nice price tag.

It'll be a few more months before Dugger can even share a glimpse of what he can do under Vrabel's guidance. After all, the Patriots aren't eligible to hold their first offseason workouts until Monday, Apr. 7.

More New England Patriots News and Rumors:

feed