Former New England Patriots linebacker Mike Vrabel did some great things during his time here in New England, and fans have decided that he’ll finally be honored for it.
Vrabel, who is currently the head coach for the Tennessee Titans and will become the 34th inductee, was voted by the fans as the team’s next selection to the Patriots Hall of Fame.
The long-time linebacker was announced on Wednesday as this year’s selection by the team, with Vrabel becoming the eighth three-time champion to be inducted, joining Troy Brown, Tedy Bruschi, Ty Law, Willie McGinest, Kevin Faulk, Matt Light, and Richard Seymour among additional inductees who share that honor.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft called him “one of the greatest players in franchise history,” noting Vrabel’s 10 touchdowns, which made him become the first player in NFL History to reach the endzone on each of his first career receptions. He also told the news to Vrabel directly over a web meeting.
“It’s my pleasure to announce Mike Vrabel as this year’s selection to the Patriots Hall of Fame,” said Kraft, in a statement by the team. “Mike’s leadership and versatility were principal to one of the most successful eras in franchise history, propelling the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in four years and establishing multiple NFL records for consecutive-game win streaks. Many Patriots players have made contributions in all three phases of the game, but none more significantly than Mike. He was an eight-year starter on defense who also regularly contributed on special teams and is the only player in NFL history to score touchdowns on his first 10 career receptions, including touchdowns in back-to-back Super Bowl victories. He was respected for his football intellect and was destined to become a head coach in this league. I look forward to welcoming him back to New England, where his induction will preserve his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.”
Vrabel finished ahead of finalists Logan Mankins and Bill Parcells.
No date and time has been announced yet for the 2023 induction ceremony.
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Ian Logue is a Seacoast native and owner and senior writer for PatsFans.com, an independent media site covering the New England Patriots and has been running this site in one form or another since 1997.
