Mike Vrabel has emphasized that his influence on the Patriots’ roster was a key factor in his decision to join the organization as head coach.
This offseason, much has been said about the power dynamics within New England’s personnel department. However, on Tuesday, Vrabel left no doubt—he will ultimately be the one making the final roster decisions moving forward.
Vrabel acknowledged that having control over the team’s roster was a crucial part of his choice to take the job.
“I wouldn’t be here, and I wouldn’t have wanted to be the head coach if I wasn’t comfortable with my influence on the roster,” Vrabel said. “We’ll continue having great discussions with the personnel staff, myself, Stretch [John Streicher], and the coaching staff. Our goal is to bring in the right players, whether through the first wave of free agency, later stages of free agency, the draft, or by capitalizing on players who become available.”
He added, “We know we need to strengthen the roster. It’s about having productive conversations on how to make that happen.”
That said, Vrabel isn’t operating in isolation. He’s not overruling those around him or dismissing the work being done by the team’s scouting and personnel departments.
The collaborative approach that existed under Jerod Mayo remains, but with Vrabel, the process feels more structured. He’s relying on the front office while ensuring they target players who align with the team’s 2025 vision.
A key addition to that structure is personnel executive Ryan Cowden, who is working alongside Eliot Wolf. Given Vrabel’s prior relationship with Cowden from their time in Tennessee, he is confident in Cowden’s contributions.
“I believe in what Ryan brings and the impact he can have on our organization,” Vrabel said. “He’ll help Eliot [Wolf] and the personnel staff to ensure we get the right players.”
According to NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry, Cowden did not travel to Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine this week, likely handling responsibilities in New England while Wolf and Vrabel evaluate prospects.
Overall, trust appears to be a key theme within the Patriots’ front office. Vrabel has repeatedly expressed confidence that everyone is aligned in their approach to rebuilding the roster.
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