Mike Vrabel has opened up about his relationship with AJ Brown as trade rumors link the Philadelphia Eagles star with the New England Patriots .
Brown, who is currently with the Eagles, has been heavily linked with a potential move to the Patriots this offseason amid speculation about roster reshuffling.
The chatter has naturally fueled interest in Vrabel's stance, given their shared history. The former Tennessee Titans head coach did not shy away from addressing the connection.
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Speaking in an interview shared via Patriots Today by Chat Sports , Mike Vrabel said: "I think the relationship with players, specifically you asked about AJ [Brown], it has meant a lot. I've watched him grow, I've watched him mature. I'm proud of him."
He added: "I'm proud of the father that he is, I'm proud of the husband, and that has nothing to do with where he plays or where he played. So, those are the things that are important."
Vrabel's comments made clear that his bond with Brown extends well beyond football. While rumors swirl about a possible Patriots move, the former coach is focused on personal development rather than transactional possibilities.
Mike Vrabel also revealed the pair remain in regular contact, stating: "We reach out and text each other during the things that happen good to each other and sometimes things don't go so well for the people that you're close with and you text those as well."
"So, it's a two-way street of support and reminders of what got us to where we are here today," Vrabel concluded.
The exchange underscores the lasting connection formed during Brown's time in Tennessee, where he emerged as one of the league's premier wide receivers under Vrabel's leadership. Even as Brown continues his career in Philadelphia, the relationship appears unchanged.
Whether the Patriots rumors amount to anything concrete remains to be seen. But Vrabel's words suggest that, regardless of uniform, the respect between coach and player remains intact.
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