But he did enjoy a memorable interaction with the Patriots coach when he was making college visits a dozen years ago.
“I met coach Vrabes when I took my visit to Ohio State. I didn’t know he used to play a little tight end back when (Tom) Brady was here,” Peppers said. “He told me to line up. I’m like, ‘He’s a linebacker. He ain’t got too much.’’’
Only Vrabel proved otherwise.
He said the flip to Vrabel, his third coach in three years, has been good.
“I definitely think he knows how to get the best out of his players,” Peppers said, “and I definitely think that everyone has bought in.”
Peppers, who signed a three-year, $25 million contract extension last year, certainly fits the mold of the type of player Vrabel wants on the field. He’s tough, aggressive, and plays with force and violence.
“I love Jabrill’s energy. I like his passion for the game. I like his energy when he comes in the building,“ Vrabel said of Peppers Wednesday. ”Those things are all very positive.”
With the Patriots coming off back-to-back 4-13 seasons, Peppers just wants to finally be on a winning team.
“I know we’re just getting started but I can you everyone is hungry, everyone is bought into the new identity,” Peppers said. “We want to do whatever we have to do that that bad taste out of our mouth for sure.”
