Former New England Patriots linebacker and three-time Super Bowl winner, Mike Vrabel, has been fired from his position as head coach of the Tennessee Titans after six seasons and back-to-back losing campaigns. This change in Vrabel's availability has the potential to greatly influence the next steps for the New England Patriots, who are coming off a disastrous 4-13 season.

According to The Boston Globe's Ben Volin, Vrabel is believed to be Patriots owner Robert Kraft's top choice to succeed Bill Belichick, who has faced speculation regarding his future with the franchise. It is rumored that Belichick and Kraft may part ways, making way for Vrabel to take the helm of the Patriots.

Vrabel's dismissal by the Titans "changes everything" for the Patriots' offseason plans, as stated by Volin. The decision by the Titans to fire Vrabel rather than explore a trade eases the Patriots' pursuit of him. However, it also puts pressure on the Patriots to make a decision on Belichick quickly, as they may face competition from other teams interested in Vrabel.

There are clear connections between Vrabel and the Patriots organization. During his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame in October, Vrabel received VIP treatment from Kraft, who invited him to sit in the owner's box. Vrabel expressed his admiration for the Patriots' organization, highlighting their leadership, fans, and coaching.

Additionally, Vrabel has ties to the Patriots coaching staff. He worked with the Patriots' offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Bill O'Brien during their time together in Houston. Vrabel served as a linebackers coach on O'Brien's Texans staff for two years.

Belichick is expected to meet with the Krafts in the coming weeks to discuss the future of the Patriots. Vrabel's agent, Neil Cornrich, has a longstanding relationship with Belichick and reportedly advised on Belichick's contract with the Patriots in the past.

Vrabel's coaching achievements should not be overlooked. In 2021, he was named the NFL Coach of the Year as he led the Titans to a 12-5 season and the AFC's No. 1 seed. Under Vrabel's tenure, the Titans made the playoffs three years in a row, including an appearance in the AFC Championship game in 2019.

As the Patriots navigate the aftermath of their disappointing season, the availability of Mike Vrabel could drastically alter their plans. Whether Vrabel ultimately becomes the successor to Belichick or pursues other coaching opportunities, his firing by the Titans has created an intriguing scenario for the Patriots and their search for a fresh start.