Vrabel snaps at radio hosts after Patriots rally past Dolphins

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel challenged radio hosts on Monday morning, arguing that frequent questions about player performance can be excessive. The comments came after his team defeated the Miami Dolphins 24-19 on Sunday, erasing a 13-3 halftime deficit.

Speaking on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show,” Vrabel addressed the team’s comeback. He attributed the second-half surge to a mix of scheme adjustments and improved execution. “It’s probably a little bit of both,” Vrabel explained. “I mean we try to do things throughout the game, trying to make adjustments, plays that we maybe need to call again for whatever reason.”

The Patriots avoided a home loss to the last-place Dolphins, a scenario that has plagued the franchise in the past. The team returned from a longer layoff following a Thursday night loss to the Bears on Oct. 22.

Tensions rose during the broadcast when hosts asked about wide receiver A.J. Brown. Brown was ruled out for Sunday’s game with a knee injury and had also managed an ankle issue earlier in the week. Vrabel provided a brief answer: “We’ll see where A.J.’s availability is this week.” When the hosts pressed for more detail on whether the injury was new, Vrabel repeated his initial response.

Vrabel then interrupted a question about running back Rhamondre Stevenson with what appeared to be sarcasm. “We should bench him,” Vrabel said. “We should get rid of him.” He later clarified that he was referring to players who have one bad play, noting that the media often focuses on single mistakes. “Imagine if we would’ve benched Drake Maye after he threw a couple of interceptions? I mean that’s what you guys sound like sometimes,” he said. “It’s ridiculous.”

When asked if the hosts should change their questioning style, Vrabel said they should continue. “No, you should do what you guys are doing. It seems to be working.”

Vrabel praised Stevenson, who finished Sunday’s game with 82 yards on 19 carries and three catches for eight yards. He highlighted the 28-year-old’s versatility and care for the football. “He certainly does a lot for us. He’s a versatile running back,” Vrabel said. He noted that Stevenson has improved his ball security and technique since last season.

The trade deadline arrives on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. Vrabel said the team will attempt to make roster additions if possible, though he did not specify targets. “I think we’ll try to do what we can to make the team better,” he said. He confirmed that conversations with other teams are ongoing as the deadline approaches.