The New England Patriots are preparing for their final matchup of the season, as they will host the Miami Dolphins in Week 18 and move on to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021 season. With a win, they will secure the No. 2 seed in the AFC with a chance to steal the top seed from the Broncos, depending on if they beat the Chargers.
As they get closer to the biggest games of their season, the team is unfortunately tasked with dealing with some serious allegations involving two of their best starters, as receiver Stefon Diggs has been "charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault," and as of Wednesday morning, defensive tackle Christian Barmore is facing a domestic assault charge.
Even more unfortunate is that this is nothing new for the franchise at this time of the year. Throughout the dynasty years, a few Patriots players faced serious allegations that could have distracted the team. As we know, that was never an issue under Bill Belichick, putting more pressure on Mike Vrabel to ensure the same reality.
According to the head coach, he's up for that challenge.
Mike Vrabel is not concerned about the Patriots becoming distracted ahead of Week 18
While speaking to reporters before Wednesday's practice, Vrabel was asked whether he was concerned that the allegations involving Barmore and Diggs would become a distraction as the Patriots get ready for a big matchup against the Dolphins.
He stated he wasn't concerned that they would become a distraction, given his age and life experience. But that just means he needs to ensure they don't, because if they do, his comments will be immediately revisited for all the wrong reasons.
Mike Vrabel asked if he's 'afraid' these will be distractions: "Afraid? No, I'm not afraid. I'm 50 years old. Going to be 51. I'm not afraid. I love coaching this football team. I love the way they come to work. I love the youth, I love the veterans, I love the leadership, I've…
— Alex Barth (@RealAlexBarth) December 31, 2025
Given the serious nature of the accusations, it would be difficult not to be distracted by coverage of the incidents and what their futures could look like.
However, if they need to play without Barmore and/or Diggs, or they are able to suit up on Sunday and in the playoffs, nothing can distract them from their ultimate goal. That's the nature of football, and Vrabel is now being given another test to see if he can pass.
Hopefully for the best Patriots' immediate future, he lives up to his words.