I thought I have heard it all but a recent social media take from a reporter really perplexed me, and that is saying something given the variety of opinions and comments on social media platforms. On the Athletic Football Show, Dianna Russini discussed former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel and the reason why he is not an NFL head coach this 2024 season.

Russini said, “I don’t think there was a fit for him. I don’t think he sat in front of any owner who thought that his style was going to work for what they were looking for…I had a GM at the Senior Bowl who mentioned to me Vrabel’s physical build. That he’s a very large human being. And can be very intimidating to people in an organization that are going to be part of these decisions. And that is a factor.”

What an interesting take.

Fans began to comment on the matter and quickly made comparisons between Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell and Mike Vrabel’s frame.

Campbell is listed as being 6’5″ 265 pounds, and played in the NFL for many years at the tight end position. He was a fierce competitor on and off the field, and could be intimidating as well to the average fan.

Vrabel is listed as being 6’4″ 261 pounds, and he also played in the NFL for many years as a defensive end. He is also a fierce competitor on and off the field, but to say he is someone who may not have received a head coaching role this hiring cycle is sort of interesting to say the least.

I am having a hard time understanding how his style and his potential to intimidate people within the organization were not a fit for him. This is the same organization that was quite successful with him at the helm for many seasons. Vrabel finished his Titans tenure with 56 total wins and 48 losses. He was 2-3 in the playoffs, reaching the AFC Championship game in 2019, his second season as the head coach.

Wait a moment… I just thought of something else that makes this claim even more interesting. Titans general manager Ran Carthon could also be considered a decently “large human being” as he stands 6’0″ and 218 pounds. Carthon also played in the NFL for three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts from 2004-2006.

Honestly, what has football come to? We are truly analyzing the size of a head coach as a potential reason that he was not hired during this coaching cycle? It is not only bizarre but also lacks credence, as NFL coaches tend to be former players and they have to be in shape and large human beings to even get an opportunity on the largest stage.

Coach Vrabel, as a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, I welcome you with open arms and do not judge your size. I would absolutely enjoy your presence within the organization — and so would 31 other NFL teams as an assistant coach.