This Reportedly ‘Hovered Over’ Patriots’ Decision To Change Coaches

As the outlook on the Patriots’ future started to become more and more bleak, Robert Kraft didn’t have to search far and wide for a source of optimism.

It probably didn’t take very long for Kraft to realize he missed the mark on Jerod Mayo, who was hand-picked years ago to be Bill Belichick’s successor. The idea of changing head coaches twice in as many years is a daunting and undesirable scenario, but fortunately for the Patriots, an ideal recovery plan was readily available.

“The reality: Mike Vrabel’s availability hovered over the Patriots’ decision-making process,” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer posted to X on Sunday. “In 31 seasons of ownership, the Krafts have only hired someone they…