Mike Vrabel

Mike Vrabel is a former NFL linebacker and head coach best known for leading the Tennessee Titans and for his playing career with the New England Patriots. Vrabel was born in Akron, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University, where he played college football for the Buckeyes and earned All-American honors. He was inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing his legacy as one of the program’s standout defensive players.

Vrabel was selected in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers and later rose to prominence with the Patriots. During his tenure in New England, he became a key part of the team’s defense under head coach Bill Belichick, helping secure three Super Bowl titles. Known for his versatility, he also made headlines for catching touchdown passes in goal-line situations, an unusual feat for a defensive player.

After retiring from playing, Vrabel transitioned into coaching, holding roles at Ohio State and with the Houston Texans before becoming head coach of the Tennessee Titans in 2018. He led the team to multiple playoff appearances and was named NFL Coach of the Year in 2021. A year after being named head coach of the New England Patriots, he led the team to the Super Bowl alongside quarterback Drake Maye.

Vrabel is married to Jen Vrabel, and the couple share two sons, Tyler (born in 2000) and Carter (born in 2001). In 2026, he sparked controversy after being spotted at a resort with reporter Dianna Russini.