The New England Patriots are finding success under Mike Vrabel’s no-nonsense leadership, sitting at 3-2 as the team rediscovers its identity.
Vrabel doesn’t need to be likable to win, much like Bill Belichick proved during his six Super Bowl runs in New England.
The difference from Jerod Mayo’s brief tenure is clear, as Vrabel balances his demanding approach with timely praise after strong performances.
That formula is paying off as the Patriots emerge as a legitimate playoff contender this season.
Analyst Colin Cowherd believes the combination of Vrabel’s coaching style and Drake Maye’s development is driving New England’s resurgence this fall.
“Drake Maye, now with a legitimate head coach, is quickly becoming a franchise star. (Mike) Vrabel is the opposite of Mike McDaniel in Miami. He is all function and no flash. His scheme is toughness, and that is what Vrabel’s all about. Same with Drake Maye… It’s not about the bad throws. It’s about, can you make the big boy throws? And Drake Maye, last night, made about four of them. This is what a playoff team looks like,” Cowherd said.
Are the Patriots a playoff team in Year 1 under Mike Vrabel? @colincowherd pic.twitter.com/ROkKxJEyEW
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) October 6, 2025
The Patriots stumbled early, dropping two of their first three games to AFC opponents before finding their rhythm.
They have since rattled off back-to-back dominant wins, including a 42-13 demolition of the Carolina Panthers in Week 4.
Maye threw two touchdowns in that blowout over Bryce Young’s squad before leading New England past the Bills the following week.
The Patriots now sit above .500 for the first time since Week 14 of 2022, when they were 7-6 after beating Arizona.
That season ended 8-9 after losing three of the final four games, leaving questions about whether this year will be different.
Optimism is building around Maye’s command of the offense and Vrabel’s ability to maximize the roster’s potential.
New England travels to New Orleans in Week 6 with a chance to improve to 4-2 and solidify their playoff positioning.
NEXT: Stefon Diggs Gushes About Drake Maye's Performance Against Bills