FOXBORO, Mass. — Head coach Mike Vrabel spoke ahead of the first day of training camp for the New England Patriots.
The Patriots are coming off a Super Bowl loss to the Seattle Seahawks in February, and a controversial off season.
“It’s our job to recreate the things that we did really well last year, the culture, the ability to win different ways, to find ways to win, understand how to win, and find ways to prepare,” said Vrabel on Saturday.
“We’re going to have a more different journey, that’s just how it goes each and every year, that’s what we’re expecting. We want it that way, and we’ll prepare accordingly.”
The Patriots made several notable moves during the off season, including picking up tight end Caleb Lomu in the first pick of the draft, and inquiring acquiring WR A.J. Brown, who Vrabel noted had a great attitude and willingness to learn.
“I enjoy having A.J. here. I really love him personally. He’s going to help our football team.”
Patriots Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract and is reportedly seeking an extension that would involve a big payday for New England’s top defensive player.
[ Patriots prepare to kick off training camp with two players in contract limbo ]
Patriots’ rookie second-round linebacker Gabe Jacas is in a similar contract stalemate. He still has not signed his rookie deal with New England and remains the only unsigned second-round pick from this year’s NFL Draft.
Vrabel confirmed there was still no update regarding Jacas.
“I don’t think Gabe is local. I don’t think he’s in New England,”
“The support has been fantastic, and I said this when we all got here. We have a very knowledgeable fanbase they know what good football looks like, they know what bad football looks like,” Vrabel said, regarding the fans.
“When we play good football, they support that, they enjoy that, they embrace that, and we were able to do that and give that to them and in turn they gave us their support, energy, and everything we needed especially in those playoff games down the stretch.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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