New England Patriots: 16 most important Patriots during their dynasty
By Brian Hines
10. Mike Vrabel
The Ringers Rank: Unranked
Mike Vrabel anchored the Patriots left defensive end spot for several years and numerous Super Bowl titles. His 48 sacks under Belichick are the most of any Patriot in the Bill Belichick era.
Vrabel was the definition of consistency in his time in New England. In his eight seasons, he never recorded less than 50 tackles or 3.0 sacks. His 12.5 sacks in 2007 were a career high.
He also made an impact in the passing game. Vrabel was targeted eight times in his New England career, catching all eight for touchdowns. Two touchdowns came in Super Bowl victories which were decided by three points.
"“Mike was a great player who played in different systems,” Belichick said. “He played different positions. He played on offense, defense, special teams. He played tight end. He played linebacker. Honestly, he would play free safety in practice for us once or twice a year, especially when we were up against a guy like Ed Reed who really knew what he was going to do. Just say, ‘OK, sit back there and go with what you see. If you want to gamble, gamble.’"
When Vrabel was traded in 2009, Belichick like this linebacker so much he issued a statement.
"“Mike Vrabel epitomizes everything a coach could seek in a professional football player,” it read. “Toughness, intelligence, play-making, leadership, versatility and consistency at the highest level.”"