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

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.

Mike Vrabel is officially back in New England, but this time, as the Patriots’ new head coach. For fans who remember his glory days, it’s a full-circle moment for one of the most versatile and tough players to ever be in the Pats jersey.