In recognition of one of the most impressive single-season turnarounds in recent NFL history, Mike Vrabel, head coach of the New England Patriots, has been named the Associated Press (AP) NFL Coach of the Year for the 2026 season.
The award was announced Thursday night at the NFL Honors ceremony, held just ahead of Super Bowl LX. Vrabel earned the honor in his very first season with the Patriots, guiding the franchise back to relevance after several difficult years.
A Remarkable First Season in New England
When Vrabel took over, the Patriots were coming off a 4–13 campaign and facing major questions about their future. One year later, the team finished 11–6, secured a playoff spot in the AFC East, and re-established a strong defensive identity.
You can hate Mike Vrabel all you want but you cannot be made a garbage team into Super Bowl contender team to the Super Bowl #NFLHonors pic.twitter.com/qPTkWQHRX8
— Naru ꩜ (@ibeats_0) February 6, 2026
It marked New England’s first playoff appearance since 2020, and one of the largest year-to-year win improvements in the league during the 2026 season.
Why Mike Vrabel Was Chosen Coach of the Year
Vrabel received 31 first-place votes from the AP’s 50-member national media panel. His selection was driven by several key factors.
Key Reasons Behind the Award
- Seven-win improvement: From 4–13 to 11–6, the biggest turnaround of the season
- Defensive revival: Patriots defense jumped from 31st in 2025 to 9th in 2026
- Points allowed: Just 19.4 points per game, sixth-best in the NFL
- Quarterback development: Strong growth from young QB Drake Maye
- Stability through injuries: Team finished 9–3 despite multiple lineup disruptions
- Culture reset: Clear leadership identity established in the post–Belichick era
Also see: NFL Awards 2026: Full Winners List, MVP Drama
Patriots Turnaround: Before vs After Vrabel
| Category | 2025 Season | 2026 Season |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 4–13 | 11–6 |
| Playoffs | Missed | Qualified |
| Defensive Rank | 31st | 9th |
| Points Allowed/Game | 26.8 | 19.4 |
| AFC East Standing | Bottom | Playoff Spot |
The numbers highlight just how quickly Vrabel changed the team’s trajectory.
Impact on Young Quarterback Drake Maye
A major storyline of the Patriots’ season was the development of their young quarterback. Under Vrabel’s guidance, Maye delivered a breakout year, showing improved decision-making, leadership, and consistency.
The coaching staff simplified the offense, leaned on defense, and allowed the quarterback to grow without excessive pressure—an approach widely praised around the league.
Also see: Matthew Stafford Wins AP NFL MVP 2026 Award
Other Major Winners at NFL Honors 2026
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| AP NFL MVP | Matthew Stafford (Rams) |
| Offensive Player of the Year | Justin Jefferson (Vikings) |
| Defensive Player of the Year | Myles Garrett (Browns) |
| Offensive Rookie of the Year | OJ Ongbaw (Titans) |
| Defensive Rookie of the Year | Jared Verse (Patriots) |
| Comeback Player of the Year | Matthew Stafford (Rams) |
| Assistant Coach of the Year | Zac Taylor (Rams) |
The Patriots were also represented with a Defensive Rookie of the Year win, further underlining the team’s resurgence.
Vrabel’s Message After Winning the Award
While accepting the honor, Vrabel emphasized teamwork over individual recognition. He credited players, assistants, and staff for buying into a shared vision and restoring belief inside the locker room.
He described the season as “only the beginning,” signaling that the Patriots’ rebuild phase may already be over.
With a playoff foundation now in place, New England enters the next season with momentum, stability, and a clear identity. Vrabel’s immediate success has reshaped expectations across the AFC.
While attention now shifts to Super Bowl LX, the Patriots have already secured one of the league’s biggest wins of the year—proof that the franchise’s next era has officially begun.
