Former Tennessee Titans head coach, Mike Vrabel, has transitioned to a new role within the NFL, joining the Cleveland Browns.
Vrabel, honored as the NFL Coach of the Year in 2021, parted ways with the Titans following a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs. Despite rumored interest from the New England Patriots, he remained available.
Now, Vrabel has taken on a position as a consultant for coaching and personnel with the Browns, returning to his native Ohio. His involvement with the Browns began during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, and he’s now officially part of the team.
Hailing from Akron, Ohio, Vrabel had a successful collegiate career as a linebacker at Ohio State before entering the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1997. After retiring from playing in 2010, he started his coaching journey at his alma mater in 2011.
Vrabel’s stint as the Titans’ head coach was marked by a mixed performance, tallying 54 wins and 45 losses with only two playoff victories over six seasons. While the team reached the AFC Championship Game in 2019, they struggled in postseason play in subsequent years.
Despite the Titans finishing with records of 11-5 and 12-5 in 2020 and 2021 respectively, the team opted to part ways with Vrabel.
Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk expressed gratitude for Vrabel’s contributions but announced the decision for a coaching change in January.
Joining the Browns, who achieved an 11-6 record last season despite early setbacks with key players, DeShaun Watson and Nick Chubb, Vrabel brings his expertise. With both stars expected to return in 2024 and the Browns holding five picks in the upcoming draft, there’s anticipation for a promising season.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry were reportedly impressed by Vrabel’s performance during the combine, leveraging his ties to Ohio. Vrabel’s experience as a linebackers coach and defensive coordinator for the Houston Texans before his tenure as head coach in Tennessee adds depth to the Browns’ coaching staff.
Given the Browns’ previous trade for Watson, involving their first-round pick, their initial selection in the upcoming draft will be in the second round. Their draft picks include selections in the second, third, fifth, sixth, and seventh rounds.