The spotlight is on how Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the Patriots, has transformed the team’s culture within just one season. There are, of course, many questions surrounding these changes.
One key focus for Vrabel is fostering respect within the team.
He encourages players to recognize the contributions of support staff. “We talk about the time we have with each other,” he noted. “I hope there’s a level of respect for the folks who help them do their jobs. … I feel fortunate to work with them. We all have moments of frustration or anger, and that’s okay. But it’s crucial we don’t take it out on those around us. This is a constant topic of discussion.”
Quarterback Drake Maye shared an example from training camp about basic respect. He said, “In one of our first meetings, he stressed, ‘Leave a rag in the shower for the facilities guy to pick it up.’ It’s not fair to expect him to clean up after us.” Maye added that while it might seem trivial, these little lessons encourage players to think about others in the facility.
He continued, “Even with security here, many of us might grumble about having to show our badges. But Vrabel said, ‘No big deal—it’s just part of the process.’ These small actions make a difference in treating others with dignity. Coach Vrabel always emphasizes how recognizing those doing extra work is valuable, whether it’s through a contribution here and there or simply acknowledging their efforts.”
The Connection with McCown
Interestingly, both Seattle’s quarterback Sam Darnold and New England’s Maye share a connection through Josh McCown.
McCown, who was the veteran quarterback for the Jets during Darnold’s rookie year in 2018, served as a mentor. For Maye, McCown was his coach in high school at Myers Park in North Carolina, where they even analyzed game footage together.
“Josh is someone special. He had a standout season with the Jets in 2017,” Darnold remarked, recalling the 18 touchdown passes and 9 interceptions during McCown’s performance. Darnold added that McCown likely had thoughts of being a starter as they went into 2018.
Nevertheless, Darnold acknowledged McCown’s understanding of his role and how he became a significant influence in Darnold’s daily work routine. “He taught me so much—not just about football, but about life and being a husband and father. I can’t express enough how much Josh has meant to me,” Darnold said.
In a twist, McCown is currently in Minnesota, having served as Darnold’s quarterbacks coach with the Vikings last season.
Learning Through Experience
Darnold’s season as a backup in 2023 for Brock Purdy in San Francisco proved crucial for his growth as a player, which he labelled as invaluable.
“San Francisco was a pivotal experience in my development,” Darnold reflected. He added, “I genuinely believe that some of the challenges from my early career were necessary to get to this point.”
