It's a new era for the New England Patriots.
The team moved on from Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, and Jared Mayo all within the past five years.
On top of that, the Patriots are operating with their second quarterback taken in the first round. And that's one of the biggest reasons why the six-time Super Bowl-winning franchise landed its new head coach.
Speaking on the "Don't @ Me with Dan Dakich" podcast, Mike Vrabel expressed his excitement to work with Drake Maye and is eager to run his offense with the 22-year-old under center.
"I see a young, athletic, talented, full-of-potential player," Vrabel said on the podcast. "[I'm] excited to build this team around [him] and a large part of the reason why I wanted to be here. And just that talent level, to be able to build around him and to be able to grow and help him and lead and run an offense and run a football team is something that I'm excited about."
Vrabel added by describing Maye's traits that excite him, such as his ability to throw from in the pocket or off platform and knowing when to scramble.
In his rookie year, Maye tallied 15 touchdown passes, two rushing touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 13 games. He started the season as the second-string quarterback before being named a starter midway through the season. Maye finished his first pro year with a 58.6 QBR and was named to the Pro Bowl.
Vrabel took a year off from head coaching duties after he was let go by the Tennessee Titans following the 2023 season.
The time off may be exactly what he needs to help lead a struggling New England side that went 4-13 last season.
Vrabel, who used to play for the Patriots, has helped the team make a splash in free agency by making marquee signings on both sides of the ball. The team has brought in wide receiver Stefon Diggs, defensive tackle Milton Williams, and cornerback Carlton Davis III.
New England also has the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, making it an excellent opportunity to add another highly rated player to the roster.
Related: Trade Pitch Has Patriots Landing AFC East Rival Star Receiver
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This story was originally published March 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM.