Vrabel, a Patriots Hall of Famer, has experience, can deal with media demands and expectations, plus has the bona fide Patriot pedigree.

Mike Vrabel interviewed for the New England Patriots' vacant head coaching job on Thursday. There have been questions as to what his staff could potentially look like if he's ultimately hired for the job.

Vrabel is the third candidate to meet with the team, following former NFL coordinators Byron Leftwich and Pep Hamilton on Tuesday. He is considered the front-runner for the Patriots’ job, which multiple league sources expect him to land. He has previously interviewed with the Jets and Bears.