Spillane, who played at Fenwick, couldn't get a sniff when Vrabel was linebackers coach at Ohio State, and Vrabel cut him from the Titans in 2018. Years later, they're a perfect match.

Fired by the Titans after consecutive losing seasons, Vrabel, following a one-year sabbatical as a Cleveland Browns coaching and personnel consultant, was hired by Patriots owner Robert Kraft in January 2025 to revive the franchise in the wake of consecutive 4-13 campaigns.

From Buckeye State natives to former Ohio State stars, see which players and coaches will rep Ohio in Super Bowl 60 this weekend.

From Super Bowl linebacker to master rebuilder, Mike Vrabel’s return has reignited Patriots pride and carried New England back to football’s biggest stage

Vrabel also coached for Ohio State University, the Houston Texans, and the Tennessee Titans.

See which Buckeyes got nominated for NFL honors from the 2025-26 season.

Mike Vrabel’s wife, Jen Vrabel, is a former college athlete and devoted partner. Explore her life, marriage, children, and role behind his NFL career.