Mike Vrabel delivered a classy gesture to the media and New England Patriots staff in the days following Super Bowl LX.
Mike Vrabel addressed reporters after New England’s 29-13 defeat to the Seattle Seahawks and made a point of thanking those who covered the team throughout the season.
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His remarks came as the Patriots processed a Super Bowl loss that ended their campaign in Santa Clara. The head coach chose to close his press conference with gratitude rather than frustration.
Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
Mike Vrabel thanks media after Super Bowl LX defeat
The Patriots were beaten 29-13 by Seattle in Super Bowl LX, a result that ended their postseason run. Despite the disappointment, Mike Vrabel maintained a composed tone when he faced the media on Tuesday.
He expressed appreciation to reporters who followed the team across the season. He then recognised the role of the press in evaluating the organisation.
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“I appreciate you guys, I don’t know how many people I got to see after the game but I want to thank you.”
“Thank you for covering us, thank you for the care that you gave a lot of these stories. We fully understand that we are judged, we are questioned.”
“That’s your job, that’s what you guys are here for. But [I] appreciate the respect that you gave us, gave me, gave our team, gave our organization.”
Vrabel’s tone marks shift from Bill Belichick era
Vrabel’s comments contrasted with the reputation New England developed during the Bill Belichick years, when press conferences were often blunt and guarded. His approach reflected a noticeably different tone as he closed out the season.
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“Look forward to seeing you guys in April, maybe, or whenever I have to talk to you again. I know it is at the [NFL Scouting Combine], I’m just kidding.”
Vrabel also wished a happy birthday to Stacey James, the team’s vice president of communications. The gesture reinforced his appreciation for both the media and the staff supporting the organisation behind the scenes.
While the Patriots fell short on the field, Vrabel ensured the closing message of their Super Bowl campaign centred on respect and gratitude.
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