Report: NFL GM suggested Mike Vrabel being 'very large' hurt his job prospects

The 2024 NFL head coaching cycle has come and gone, and Mike Vrabel is still a free agent.

Despite coaching the Tennessee Titans to a 54-45 record across six seasons, Vrabel received no takers — a surprising development. Dianna Russini of The Athletic, speaking on “The Athletic Football Show,” shed some light on why Vrabel didn’t get a head coaching job during this cycle. According to the NFL insider, Vrabel may be just too big for some front offices to work with.

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“I don’t think there was a fit for him,” Vrabel said. “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.”

Well, that would certainly be a new one. For reference, Vrabel was listed at 6-foot-4, 261 pounds when he played in the NFL. Russini even admitted she laughed at the notion when it was said to her.

“He said, ‘I’m just telling you I’ve been in rooms and somebody’s physical presence can make a difference,’” Russini said. “And if you think about it makes sense. Outside of football, it has an effect.” 

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Vrabel, 48, did receive some interest on the market. He interviewed with the Los Angeles Chargers and Atlanta Falcons, though those jobs eventually went to Jim Harbaugh and Raheem Morris respectively. Not only did Vrabel keep Tennessee competitive, but he guided them to three playoff appearances, including an AFC Championship Game in 2019.

Prior to landing in Tennessee, Vrabel spent three seasons as linebackers coach and one season as defensive coordinator for the Houston Texans (2014-17). The former Ohio State standout also spent three seasons on the Buckeyes’ coaching staff (2011-13).