"We're back" - Dave Portnoy fires a warning at Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen as Patriots hire Mike Vrabel

Dave Portnoy's bold declaration signals a renewed confidence in the New England Patriots' future following Mike Vrabel's hiring as head coach. The statement directly challenges the AFC's powerhouses, particularly Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen.

Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports and a vocal Patriots supporter, has built his reputation on passionate commentary about New England sports. Vrabel returns to the Patriots, which he played from 2001 to 2008 and won three Super Bowl rings with.

On Sunday, Portnoy posted a video message on X, moments after reports emerged about Vrabel's hiring as the Patriots' new coach.

"Mikey Vrabel, Mikey Vrabel, coming back home," Portnoy said. "Mikey Vrabel, comin back home. Starts now. We've been a little checked out. Hey, NFL. Hey, Mahomes. Hey, Buffalo. Hey, everybody else in the league. Everybody who thinks they're on the up and up. We're back."

The Patriots' choice of Vrabel comes after consecutive 4-13 seasons — their worst performance since the pre-Bill Belichick era. Vrabel brings proven leadership credentials, including AP NFL Coach of the Year honors in 2021 and a 56-48 record with the Tennessee Titans.

Mike Vrabel's homecoming

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Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Jack Conklin, who played under Mike Vrabel in Tennessee, vouched for his former coach's dedication and leadership abilities.

"He's going to get the most out of players, and he's a great leader," Conklin said on Jan. 5, via Yahoo! Sports. "I'm really excited for him, for his future, and I hope he has a lot of success."

Vrabel's arrival coincides with promising developments in New England. The Patriots hold the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, possess $130 million in projected cap space and have rising sophomore quarterback Drake Maye. These resources could fuel the Patriots' comeback bid under Vrabel's guidance.

Vrabel brings a decorated football background to his new role. An All-American at Ohio State, he recorded 690 tackles, 56 sacks and 11 touchdowns during his 14-year NFL career. His experience with the Patriots' winning culture earned him spots on the 2000s All-Decade and All-Dynasty teams before his 2023 induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame.

This homecoming story carries extra weight for New England fans. Vrabel became the third Patriots coach in the last three years, following the legendary coach he played for and the teammate he played alongside. His track record of transforming teams and deep playoff runs with Tennessee positions him well to resurrect the Patriots' winning tradition.