In Vrabel’s attacking-style defense, he utilizes smaller and more athletic linebackers. At 6-foot-2, 231 pounds, Elliss fits that mold – and it’s one reason why the Patriots matched a two-year, $13.5 million offer sheet this offseason to keep him in New England.

New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel had to deliver a hard teaching moment for second-year wideout Javon Baker.

Cornerback Christian Gonzalez, veteran tight end Hunter Henry, and third-year receiver Demario Douglas all decided to praise Vrabel when they were talking to the media. Vrabel has already made his mark on creating the roster, and now he is doing his job by making an impact on the roster.

FOXBOROUGH - Mike Vrabel’s hands-on approach with his Patriots team has gotten a lot of traction. Asked Wednesday how that evolved, Vrabel drew back to his time working as a linebackers coach at Ohio State.

Mike Vrabel is the head coach of the New England Patriots, looking to rebuild the franchise to the heights it reached when he was a player there. Of course, he likely wouldn’t be where he is as a coach if he hadn’t begun coaching with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Mike Vrabel, who played under Bill Belichick during their time with the New England Patriots, sent a message to his former head coach ahead of his new chapter with the North Carolina Tar Heels.