Chargers Should Target Unjustly-Fired Titans Coach Mike Vrabel
Black Monday has come and gone, but the coaching carousel is still spinning, and the Los Angeles Chargers still find themselves in the market for a new head coach.
With seven franchises on the hunt for the right leader, the stakes are high for the Chargers. While the popular sentiment leans towards Jim Harbaugh, there's another intriguing option in former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
After making three playoff appearances in six seasons, Vrabel's recent departure from the Titans raises questions about the timing of his firing. Despite this, his availability on the open market presents a golden opportunity for the Chargers, and the Spanos family should consider him a viable option.
Six years ago, Vrabel stepped into the role of the main guy for the Titans, and his tenure from 2019 to 2021 showcased his coaching prowess. With a team that wasn't initially considered among the league's best and limited quarterback play, Vrabel led the Titans to a commendable 32-17 record. Notably, he secured the team's first division win in 2020 since 2008 and followed it up by clinching the number one seed in the AFC the following season, earning himself NFL Coach of the Year honors.
Imagine transplanting Vrabel to Los Angeles, where he could work with star quarterback Justin Herbert. The prospect of Vrabel's coaching and Herbert's talent suggests a formula for an instant turnaround. Despite challenges like the Chargers' less-than-ideal cap space and the potential movement of top players, the allure of coaching a team with a standout quarterback makes this job attractive.
Additionally, the Chargers hold the number five and 37 pick in the upcoming NFL draft, adding more appeal to the coaching position. The team is already making moves, and adding Vrabel to the list of potential hires could be a game-changer.
Vrabel's ability to extract the best from his team -- along with his proven track record -- set him apart in a crowded field. Los Angeles has the opportunity to make a strategic and impactful hire, and Vrabel could be the missing piece to elevate the team. As the coaching search unfolds, keeping Vrabel in serious consideration could be a decision that pays dividends for the Bolts in the coming seasons.
