The former legendary Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Bill Cowher opened up about his coaching days in the Steel City during a recent episode of The Steam Room podcast. The popular show is hosted by NBA legend Charles Barkley and beloved NBA On TNT broadcaster, Ernie Johnson.
One of the key moments Cowher discussed was his relationship with former Steelers player and now coach Mike Vrabel, shedding light on why he encouraged Vrabel to seek opportunities elsewhere after playing four seasons for him.
"I'll never forget, Mike Vrabel came in after four years, and I said, 'Mike, listen, we're going to offer you a contract,' but he goes, 'Well, [if] I can get a lot more. I go.' 'You're probably gonna get a lot more somewhere else,' I said. 'I'Il play you, but you're probably the third outside linebacker on our team right now.' He went to New England and had a great career."
It was a candid conversation that set the stage for Vrabel's departure from Pittsburgh. After he left, he went on to build out a great career with the New England Patriots. The Steelers drafted Vrabel in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft. While he was never cut by the team, Cowher made it clear that Vrabel's best path was to explore opportunities beyond Pittsburgh. Cowher's decision was not just about football but also about being a good human being.
Cowher recognized Vrabel's talent, but also understood that he wouldn't get his chance to shine in Pittsburgh's lineup. The wise move was for Vrabel to seek a new home with a team that needed his skills and potential.
Following his departure from Pittsburgh, Vrabel's career took a significant turn when he joined the Patriots as a free agent in 2001. In New England, he not only gained a more prominent role, but also became an essential part of their early 2000s defenses. Over eight years with the Patriots, he achieved remarkable success, winning three Super Bowl championships and earning First-Team All-Pro honors.
Vrabel's versatility on the field stood out as he scored receiving touchdowns in consecutive Super Bowls, a feat unmatched by any primarily defensive player in Super Bowl history.
After retiring as a player, Vrabel transitioned into coaching. He started at Ohio State, serving as the linebackers and defensive line coach for three seasons. In 2014, he made his entry into the NFL coaching ranks with the Houston Texans, initially as a linebackers coach and later as the defensive coordinator. This journey ultimately led him to become the head coach of the Tennessee Titans in 2018, where he continued to make his mark in the football world.
Steelers Got A Favor From Mike Vrabel
In 2023, Vrabel helped the Steelers secure a postseason spot after leading the Titans to victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars in their regular season finale. However, his tenure with the Titans came to an end when he was let go shortly thereafter. His last feat as the Titans' head coach was helping guide the team that drafted him into the postseason.
While the Steelers' playoff performance this season didn't live up to the franchise's storied history, it's essential to acknowledge the critical role played by Vrabel in their postseason appearance. The Steelers owe their playoff presence to Vrabel's contributions.During a crucial moment in the Steelers season, the Titans, the team led by Vrabel, found themselves in a unique situation.
They were no longer competing for playoff contention, while their opponent, the Jaguars, had everything on the line. In this high-stakes matchup, Vrabel demonstrated his unwavering commitment to winning football games. His dedication and leadership were on full display, showcasing just how much the pursuit of victory meant to him.
Now, as Vrabel embarks on the next phase of his career, he eagerly anticipates his next opportunity as an NFL coach. Despite his departure from the Titans, Vrabel remains a sought-after name in the coaching market. His successful transition from player to coach, coupled with his track record of excellence, has made him a desirable candidate for numerous NFL franchises seeking leadership on the sidelines.
Cowher's decision to encourage Vrabel to explore opportunities beyond Pittsburgh, even if it meant parting ways for the greater good of both player and team, exemplifies the selflessness and wisdom of a legendary coach.
In retrospect, it's clear that Cowher's guidance contributed significantly to Vrabel's successful journey, from a promising player to a prominent NFL coach. This story serves as a testament to the enduring impact of mentorship and the mutual respect that exists between coaches and players in the world of professional football.
More must-reads: