Patriots' Slow Start Puts Mike Vrabel Under Scrutiny

The New England Patriots defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday after losing to the Seattle Seahawks at the 2026 NFL season opener.

Potential Scrutiny for Patriots and Mike Vrabel

NFL insider Jason La Canfora discussed the potential slow start of the new football season for the Patriots, highlighting that the team and its Head Coach, Mike Vrabel, could face scrutiny. La Canfora noted that if the Patriots get off to a slow start, there will be questions about distractions, focus, and Vrabel's ability to prepare the team to return to being Super Bowl contenders after exceeding expectations last year.

Mike Vrabel had to step away from the team for a period of time, addressing family issues, and was not present during the draft. La Canfora questioned whether Mike Vrabel can motivate the Patriots to meet their new expectations after exceeding them last year.