Heed the Call NFL Podcast with Dan Hanzus & Marc Sessler How Mike Vrabel Turned the Patriots Around
Feb 5, 2026
Chad Graff, Patriots reporter for The Athletic, explains how Mike Vrabel’s hires, free‑agent hits and rookie class flipped New England’s season. Brian Baldinger, former NFL lineman and analyst, previews the Super Bowl and dissects Patriots’ defensive identity and protection concerns. They dig into coaching changes, Drake May’s growth, matchup strengths and personnel puzzles in short, punchy conversation.
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Patriots Are Suddenly A Likeable Powerhouse
- The 2025 Patriots feel unexpectedly likable compared with past 'evil empire' teams.
- Chad Graff credits cohesive coaching, strong free-agent picks, and an 11-player draft class for the turnaround.
Draft Retention Fueled Rapid Rise
- All 11 drafted Patriots still remain on the roster and have contributed meaningfully.
- That rarity helped New England accelerate from rebuilding to Super Bowl contention.
Coaching + QB Advantage Wins Games
- The Patriots' edge came from having advantages at head coach and quarterback all season.
- Graff argues the NFL remains a head coach–quarterback league at its core.