Will Mike Vrabel alter Patriots' succession plan for Belichick? originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The Tennessee Titans' surprising firing of Mike Vrabel has New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft a difficult decision to make.
Linebackers coach Jerod Mayo has been expected to succeed Bill Belichick when the Patriots part ways with their longtime head coach. New England announced its commitment to Mayo last offseason, resulting in Mayo turning down both head coach and defensive coordinator interviews with other teams.
With Belichick's Patriots tenure likely over, Vrabel's unexpected availability may have thrown a wrench in Kraft's succession plans.