NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The unexpected end to Mike Vrabel’s six-year tenure as head coach of the Tennessee Titans was attributed to poor communication, misinterpreted statements, and misunderstandings. Various events led to his firing, including a disagreement between Vrabel and owner Amy Adams Strunk over the readiness of general manager Ran Carthon for the job. Furthermore, Strunk was displeased with Vrabel’s visit to the New England Patriots’ Hall of Fame and felt that her faith in Vrabel was not reciprocated. Despite leading the Titans to the AFC title game in his second season and winning NFL Coach of the Year in 2021, Vrabel’s recent record of 13-21 caused concern. In a statement, Strunk explained that the team needed a fresh approach and perspective.
One of the reasons for the breakdown in the relationship between Vrabel and the organization was the Titans’ desire to modernize their process by incorporating analytics. Vrabel and his coaching staff embraced the use of data-based decision-making on the field but felt uninformed about how the new personnel department was utilizing analytics off the field. The Titans’ ownership, however, fully supported Carthon’s vision, which was influenced by his previous experience with the San Francisco 49ers organization. The question remained whether Vrabel would be open to this change.
The strained relationship between Vrabel and Strunk was exacerbated by two comments made during the hiring process for a new general manager. Vrabel expressed a desire for full control over the roster, a request that Strunk firmly rejected based on her belief that head coaches should not have complete control. Additionally, Vrabel questioned Carthon’s readiness to become an NFL general manager, suggesting instead that he be promoted to assistant GM. This conversation damaged the relationship between Vrabel and Strunk.
Another incident that contributed to the rift between Vrabel and Strunk was Vrabel’s visit to Foxboro, Massachusetts, to be inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame during the Titans’ bye week. In a speech before a Patriots game, Vrabel praised the organization and its success, causing raised eyebrows in Tennessee. When questioned about his comments, Vrabel clarified that he was referring to the Patriots’ six Super Bowl victories in 20 years. Strunk was displeased with Vrabel’s remarks, leading to further tension.
Reports regarding Vrabel’s relationship with Carthon circulated after the visit to New England. However, Vrabel did not address these reports with either Carthon or Strunk, causing communication issues and increased tension. Vrabel’s approach to the inaccurate information and false reports was to dismiss them, further straining his relationship with the organization.
High-level team sources had previously indicated that the Titans intended to retain Vrabel as head coach in the long term. However, Strunk came to believe that Vrabel did not share the same sentiments, causing communication between them to deteriorate. Strunk’s decision to part ways with Vrabel was solidified after a loss to the Houston Texans.
The Titans finished the season with a win against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but the status of Vrabel’s job became uncertain. Ultimately, in a two-minute meeting, Strunk informed Vrabel of the organization’s decision to move in a new direction. No discussions were held regarding potential trades or restructuring of power. Vrabel is now expected to be a sought-after candidate for other head coaching positions in the NFL.