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‘I get to coach the Patriots!’: Mike Vrabel breaks team down after thrilling win against Texans

AFC Divisional Playoffs: Houston Texans v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 18: Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots celebrates with Stefon Diggs #8 after a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) (Elsa/Getty Images)

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots are headed back to the AFC Championship for the first time since the 2018-2019 season, and nobody could be more happier than head coach Mike Vrabel.

Following their dominating 28-16 win, the Pats headed back to the locker room to break it down with the team.

“I can’t wait to tell people I get to coach the Patriots,” Vrabel excitedly stated. “I get to coach you guys on Sunday!”

Vrabel then gave a special mention to a few players after their performances in the game, the first being wide out Demario “Pop” Douglas. Pop had 2 catches for 36 yards, but his first was a crucial 4th-down catch for a touchdown in the first quarter to open up the scoring.

The second was cornerback Marcus Jones. Jones took one of C.J. Stroud’s four interceptions for a pick-six.

Lastly, there was wide receiver Kayshon Boutte. Boutte had caught one of the best touchdowns of the season. In the fourth quarter, the Pats were charging downfield, leading 21-16, when quarterback Drake Maye tossed a ball to Boutte running downfield on the sideline, and made an emaculate diving one-handed grab for six.

The Pats will celebrate tonight, but then it’s “on to Denver,” as the Patriots will get set to travel to Colorado to face the Broncos on Sunday in the AFC Championship.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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