Wilfork described Vrabel as an outspoken “alpha,” one that embraces an “old school” mentality and isn’t going to shy away from doing things his way.

Vrabel joined the Patriots staff after a 14-year NFL career that included three Super Bowl wins, an All-Pro selection and a Pro Bowl nomination. Since retiring in 2010, he's spent 14 years as a coach, including six seasons as the head coach of the Tennesee Titans.

The longtime New England Patriots defensive tackle played with Vrabel for five seasons from 2004 through 2008 before the veteran linebacker was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs, and the two also spent the 2015 and 2016 seasons together on the Houston Texans when Vrabel was an assistant coach.