Patriots Star Highlights Key Culture Changes Under Mike Vrabel
Mike Vrabel wasted no time restoring glory to the New England Patriots organization.
The Patriots went from consecutive four-win seasons to a 13-4 campaign and AFC Championship Game appearance. Vrabel can steer New England back to the Super Bowl, which he won three times playing for Bill Belichick, with a victory over the Denver Broncos.
Marcus Jones is among the Patriots veterans who have experienced significant coaching turnover. The defensive back and special teams standout has played for three different head coaches in the last three seasons.
During an interview on ESPN’s “The Rich Eisen Show,” Jones explained that players have gotten to know their teammates better as people in Vrabel’s locker room. He believes those strengthened personal connections have benefited them on the gridiron.
“Learning more about the people that’s around you makes you want to play harder for your brother on the field,” Jones said. “That person also has your back as well. I feel like a lot of off-the-field stuff helped us build our trust when it comes to being on the field.”
Jones added that the defensive backs gather to watch film while eating Chick-fil-A on off days. The team has also bonded through community service outreach.
While Jones praised Vrabel for bringing “excitement” to the team and encouraging them to celebrate together, the 27-year-old also noted that the former linebacker instills a high work ethic and pays close attention to details in practice.
“It doesn’t just end up happening on Sunday. It’s through the week of preparation, making sure that we know about every situation that comes up in the game,” Jones said. “You know, you love to hear that. And also, keeping us up to the standard. Making sure that we are never complacent.”
The team also admires their leader’s decorated track record as a player and coach. The Super Bowl would be a new experience for most Patriots players, but not Vrabel.
“He understands the effort you have to put into it, the sacrifices as well,” Jones said. “Having that resume and knowing how to get there and everything like that is something we love to hear from him.”