A coaching journey he needed to take, and the former star linebacker uniquely suited to put a faltering franchise back on track.

Mike Vrabel returns as the Patriots head coach, marking a rare moment for the former player. Let's revisit his legendary playing career.

Mike Vrabel got the call from the Patriots that the team was trading him to the Kansas City Chiefs. Eight years of service in New England, with three titles, and the linebacker was out of there a year too early perhaps rather than a year too late like so many others who played for that team under Bill Belichick.