Mike Vrabel is now free to get an early jump on the interview process.
Vrabel’s consulting agreement with the Cleveland Browns expired Monday, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It means Vrabel no longer is under contract and thus can interview for any head coaching vacancy.
The 49-year-old Vrabel figures to be the top coaching candidate this offseason, along with Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
The Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints and New York Jets are among those looking for a head coach with other organizations likely to join them after Week 18. Schefter and others anticipate every franchise with a vacancy will show interest in Vrabel.
The New England Patriots don’t officially need a head coach, though speculation continues to surface about Jerod Mayo’s standing within the franchise. Vrabel reportedly would be interested in coaching the Patriots, if there’s an opening.
Should Patriots owner Robert Kraft be interested, the organization will have to act fast.
