Two days ago, our own John Taylor of CFT beat all the big boys to the punch, reporting that there’s a “very good chance” Chiefs linebacker Mike Vrabel will retire and join Ohio State as the team’s new linebackers coach.
Now, the Columbus Dispatch reports that it is indeed happening. (The Dispatch, however, doesn’t specify the position Vrabel will fill. Luke Fickel’s post-Tressel elevation to head coach created a vacancy at linebackers coach.)
Per the report, on Monday Vrabel will simultaneously retire and become a member of the Buckeyes’ coaching staff.
Vrabel, a 14-year veteran, spent his first four seasons with the Steelers. In 2001, he jumped to the Patriots, just in time to earn three Super Bowl rings in four years. He was traded along with quarterback Matt Cassel to the Chiefs in 2009.
The linebacker often played offense in goal-line situations. He racked up 10 career touchdown receptions, all of which came from two yards or shorter. He also caught touchdown passes in Super Bowl XXXVIII and XXXIX, both Patriots victories.