4 reasons Patriots need to hire Mike Vrabel to replace Bill Belichick

The New England Patriots appear headed for major changes in the near future.

Whether we're talking about the future of the quarterback position, key defensive players who may not be brought back, or even something bigger, the fact of the matter is, the Patriots are no where near where they're used to being.

One of the biggest changes that could be made is if the Patriots move on from head coach Bill Belichick. Despite signing a lucrative extension this past offseason, New England might still fire the long-time, legendary, future Hall of Fame head coach.

If they do, rumor has it that the Patriots' hand-picked replacement could be a former Patriots player and current Tennessee Titans head coach, Mike Vrabel.

Why would the Patriots hire Vrabel and fire Belichick? There are a few reasons.

1. The game has passed Belichick by

Look, let's be real here. First and foremost, the game has completely passed Belichick by. Whether or not Vrabel is the ultimate successor in New England, the fact of the matter is that Belichick is no longer equipped to be a head coach in today's league.

Just look at the proof. It's in the pudding, as they say.

Belichick's record without Tom Brady starting is 82-96. Since Brady left New England, the Patriots have been average at best. It is very easy to see that this team needs new leadership. On one hand, it's kind of sad. But on the other, these are fans who are used to winning, and it's simply not happening under Belichick.

it is time to move on, and Vrabel appears to be a top candidate.