Mike Vrabel’s ex-Chiefs teammate thinks some Patriots players will relate better to coach ‘because he’s a dirtbag like me’

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel playfully teased reporters on Monday by announcing that 2026 first-round pick Caleb Lomu had replaced 2025 top pick Will Campbell. However, MassLive’s Mark Daniels clarified that Lomu was simply taking over Campbell’s duties in hosting the “Weekend Update,” a lighthearted rookie initiation comedy skit.

While Vrabel continues to showcase his sharp sense of humor at the podium, a closer look at the Patriots’ locker room culture reveals a unique dynamic between the veteran head coach and modern NFL players. Amid outside chatter and ongoing offseason storylines, those who know Vrabel best believe that his raw, unapologetic persona actually makes him more relatable to today’s athletes than traditional disciplinarians.

According to a detailed feature published by ESPN, former defensive end Shaun Smith, who shared a locker room with Vrabel during their playing days with the Kansas City Chiefs, offered an unfiltered perspective on how players view the fiery head coach. Smith suggested there could even be an unexpected connection, remarking, “Some guys are gonna be like, ‘Hey, he’s a dirtbag like me.’ You might have some guys who want to high-five him.”

Smith’s blunt observation highlights a broader reality of the NFL workplace: players prioritize authentic leadership, winning games, and coaches who understand the gritty nature of the locker room over polished corporate appearances.

Throughout New England’s roster and across the league, colleagues and players continue to praise Vrabel for his fierce loyalty, genuine communication style, and unwavering support. Rather than allowing outside distractions to affect the team in Foxborough, Vrabel’s relatable, no-nonsense approach has helped unite his locker room as the Patriots prepare to open their 2026 regular season against the Seattle Seahawks.

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