Why the Titans fired Mike Vrabel instead of trading him to the Patriots

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Jan 9, 2024 3:19 PM ET

The Tennessee Titans made a shocking move on Tuesday. They have fired head coach Mike Vrabel.

There were thoughts that Tennessee may trade Vrabel, rather than just letting him go, prior to the move. The connection that made the most sense was the New England Patriots. They have an intriguing situation of their own with long-time HC Bill Belichick.

NFL insider Dianna Russini provided some insight into why the Titans did not trade Vrabel to the Patriots.

The Titans believed trading Vrabel was too complicated and would take too long, per sources. They wanted to move on quickly. I was told Vrabel never asked ownership for a trade or asked out of Tennessee.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 9, 2024

So, it sounds like the Titans wanted to get out in front of the competition for the top candidates on the coaching market. Multiple HC spots have opened up this week, and more firings could be on the horizon around the NFL.

That being said, it is an odd explanation. A decision on Belichick is surely coming within the coming days, and they could have also traded Vrabel to a different franchise, too. They were not limited to New England - as for as knowledge currently goes.

Now, Vrabel sits atop the available coaching candidates for teams around the league that are looking for a head coach. He's considered a top-tier candidate, according to Adam Schefter.