Mandatory Minicamp is underway for the New England Patriots today, and new head coach Mike Vrabel may be establishing an identity for the team in his own image.
According to Matt Gaegan of CBS Boston, the team's Minicamp normally has three days of practice, but Vrabel shortened it down to just two.
"It's not uncommon for teams to axe the third and final day of minicamp practice for a team-building activity." Gaegan wrote. "Vrabel must be happy enough with what the team has done throughout OTAs that three days of practice won't be needed this week."
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel (L) and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels (R) watch over practice during minicamp at Gillette Stadium.
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel (L) and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels (R) watch over practice during minicamp at Gillette Stadium.
Eric Canha-Imagn Images
During his five years with the Tennessee Titans, Vrabel was known as a hard-nosed coach that was focused on details and toughness.
That explains why Mike Reiss of ESPN Boston described "effort and finish" and "ball security and disruption" as key points of identity for the team this offseason.
Gaegan believes Vrabel has seen an identity begin to establish itself because the team is willing to drop what would have been their final organized practice for more than a month.
The Patriots' head coach sat in front of the media earlier today before practices began, where Vrabel himself explained why he made the cancellation.
"Felt like, hopefully, we could get two good days of work here and get going onto the offseason program. And we'll still work... We'll be out on the field, we'll be lifting and running and meeting," Vrabel said.
After today's practice ends, the team will meet for a final time for Minicamp tomorrow afternoon.