Mike Vrabel's message to Patriots on turnaround leading to playoffs: 'We're not here just to get here'

The New England Patriots have completed a significant turnaround, finishing the regular season with a 14-3 record and claiming the AFC East title. This marks their first playoff appearance since 2021 following a last-place finish in the division last year with a 4-13 record. Head Coach Mike Vrabel, previously a player for the Patriots and now a Coach of the Year contender, emphasized the team's focus on competing for championships rather than just reaching the playoffs. The Patriots will host the Los Angeles Chargers in their first home playoff game since 2019. Vrabel aims to reestablish Gillette Stadium as a formidable playoff venue, drawing on past successes during his playing days. The Patriots' 13-win improvement from last season sets an NFL record for the largest turnaround by a team that lost 13 or more games the previous year.