How Patriots’ Josh McDaniels Described Relationship With Mike Vrabel

Josh McDaniels returns to a different New England Patriots organization for his latest stint as offensive coordinator.

McDaniels worked under Bill Belichick from 2001 to 2008 and returned to lead the offense from 2012 to 2021. After a brief run as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, McDaniels is back in New England to dial up plays for head coach Mike Vrabel.

During Friday’s radio interview on “WEEI Afternoons,” McDaniels discussed his working relationship with Vrabel.

“Great,” McDaniels said. “Vrabes is great to work for. Obviously, a big reason why I was excited about this opportunity. He’s really good at what he does, and he’s got a great vision for our team. Does a great job of leading us and our group, and it’s been awesome.”

Vrabel played for the Patriots during McDaniels’ first stop, but the linebacker probably didn’t take much instruction from the offensive guru. The 2021 Coach of the Year hired McDaniels to help get the most out of Drake Maye in the quarterback’s second season.

The coaching duo didn’t enjoy immediate success. The Patriots accrued 339 total yards in last Sunday’s 20-13 loss to the Raiders.

Maye averaged just 6.2 yards per pass attempt with four sacks and an interception to start the third quarter. Las Vegas held New England scoreless for most of the second half until Andres Borregales converted an inconsequential field goal with 19 seconds remaining.

McDaniels and Vrabel will hope to dial up better results when the Patriots play the Miami Dolphins in Week 2.