The National Football League (NFL) has announced that one of its most prestigious awards is getting a new name, and a legendary figure from the New England Patriots is being honored in the process.
As of the 2025 season, the NFL’s annual award for the top defensive rookie will be renamed the “Mike Vrabel Defensive Rookie of the Year Award.” This change is a testament to Vrabel’s enduring legacy in the NFL, both as a player and a coach.
Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker, was a key member of the team’s dominant defense during their dynasty years in the early 2000s. He won three Super Bowls with the Patriots and was known for his versatility, intelligence, and relentless work ethic.
After retiring as a player, Vrabel went on to become a successful coach, serving as the defensive coordinator for the Houston Texans before becoming the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. Under his leadership, the Titans have become a consistent playoff contender, and Vrabel has established himself as one of the top young coaches in the NFL.
The renaming of the award is a fitting tribute to Vrabel’s contributions to the sport, and it will serve as a lasting legacy for future generations of NFL players and coaches.
“Mike Vrabel is an outstanding representative of the NFL, and we are honored to recognize his achievements by renaming this award in his honor,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “His dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence are qualities that we strive to recognize and celebrate in our players and coaches.”
The Mike Vrabel Defensive Rookie of the Year Award will be presented annually to the top defensive rookie in the NFL, as voted on by a panel of media members and NFL personnel. The award will be given out at the NFL Honors ceremony, which takes place during Super Bowl week.
This change is a significant nod to Vrabel’s impact on the NFL, and it will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for young players and coaches around the league.
In reaction to the news, Vrabel expressed his gratitude and humility, saying, “I am truly humbled to have this award named in my honor. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my teammates, coaches, and family throughout my career. I am proud to be associated with this award, and I look forward to seeing the talented young defensive players who will receive it in the years to come.”
