Lame Duck Patriots Assistant Joins College Showcase Staff

Several assistant coaches await their fate with the New England Patriots as Mike Vrabel fills out his new staff in Foxboro.

Robert Kugler will stay busy during that process. The 2024 assistant offensive line coach with the Patriots will coach the East team’s offensive line during the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl along with Green Bay Packers assistant Eddie Gordon. Fellow New England assistant Drew Wilkins will serve as the East’s defensive coordinator in the game.

Kugler worked on Jerod Mayo’s staff during New England’s 4-13 season. The offensive line struggled after a patchwork unit came together in the offseason and further emphasized why quarterback Jacoby Brissett started the season over now-franchise quarterback and rookie Drake Maye. The Patriots will address the unit as one of the team’s greatest needs in free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft.

AT&T Stadium in Dallas hosts the East-West Shrine Bowl on Thursday, Jan. 30.