Things have changed from best to worst for the New England Patriots after they played in Super Bowl 60. After a crushing defeat to the Seattle Seahawks, the release of Stefon Diggs, and a new scandal involving head coach Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini, the team has faced many obstacles. So, how does that affect the Patriots’ draft outlook?
Impact of Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini Situation on Patriots’ Draft
Vrabel was huge in turning around the Patriots, as the year prior, they went 4-13, and in the first year under him, they went 14-3. So Vrabel is a big part of the team’s identity and culture, not just now, but also for the future.
Even with the scandal, Vrabel is still planning on being in the Patriots’ draft war room on the first two days of the draft. In the war room, the coach usually calls the player that the team picked on the phone to welcome them to the organization.
They are also instrumental in helping conduct the war room. Coaches can speak into decisions and moves. Last year, the Patriots drafted fairly well overall.
Their first round pick, Will Campbell, had his ups and downs his rookie year as he got a C grade and ranked 102nd according to PFSN’s NFL Player OL Impact Metric.
However, running back TreVeyon Henderson had a decent rookie season. Even though he did not win it, Henderson was up for offensive rookie of the year. Besides Henderson, wideout Kyle Williams also made some splash plays.
Henderson, Campbell, and Williams all helped Patriots quarterback Drake Maye have an MVP-like season. So, Vrabel being in the draft definitely helped New England. Yes, the scandal will be looming, but Vrabel being there does help the team.
Vrabel will not be in the draft room on day 3, as he will be attending counseling. In an ESPN piece, Mike Reiss reported that Vrabel explained why he is skipping day 3.
“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization, and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend,” Vrabel said about his decision.
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Vrabel’s attendance at counseling could set a good example for players. It shows that their leader seeks help when he needs it. Vrabel went on to say:
“This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them. “I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be.”
It is great to see how open and transparent Vrabel is on this. Instead of ignoring it, he is talking about it. Vrabel concluded by saying:
“This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”
Overall, while this is a lot for the Patriots organization, it seems like the corrected steps are getting taken.
