Josh McDaniels’ comeback sparked a particular conspiracy theory.
Almost all the coaches the Patriots brought in after hiring Mike Vrabel shared a significant trait, with one major exception.
The majority of new coaches on New England’s team previously collaborated with Vrabel, mainly in Tennessee, where the 2021 Coach of the Year led for six seasons. However, one could contend that the Patriots’ most significant addition following their hiring of Vrabel, Josh McDaniels, was not part of that group.
Indeed, McDaniels and Vrabel were quite well-acquainted with each other. The former worked on Bill Belichick’s staff during all eight of the latter’s seasons as a linebacker in New England. However, the duo had never previously worked together as coaches, which caused some to think that McDaniels’ hiring was a directive from the owners.
However, as stated by Greg Bedard from the Boston Sports Journal, that was not true.
“McDaniels’ interview on-site was thorough — at one stage, it featured Eliot Wolf — and McDaniels’ visits to college and professional teams during his time away from the season probably helped,” Bedard noted in a column released on Monday.
According to three sources, ownership was one aspect that wasn’t included. “A league source stated, ‘That did not occur, end of story.'” “It’s nothing to do with the Patriots.” Vrabes had no intention of getting mixed up in that kind of arrangement.”
So, what made Vrabel eager to bring McDaniels on board as offensive coordinator? One of Bedard’s sources stated that Vrabel was particularly drawn to McDaniels’ experience and track record in developing quarterbacks. In reality, the source described McDaniels as the “ideal” coordinator for Drake Maye.
Did the Krafts feel happy about McDaniels being reintroduced to the team? Most likely. Familiarity is among the main attractions at One Patriot Place. However, it appears that Vrabel decided independently without any pressure from his superiors.
