New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the media on Wednesday for the first time since the team’s opponent in the divisional round of the playoffs was determined, providing a key update on an injured player.
The Houston Texans defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6 on Monday night, setting up Sunday’s matchup with the Patriots. The two teams haven’t played since last season, when the Texans won 41-21.
This is the Patriots’ first trip to the divisional round since their run to the franchise’s sixth Super Bowl title in the 2018 season.
The Texans could be without star wide receiver Nico Collins after he suffered a concussion Monday night. Another key injury question is whether Patriots Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez will be ready to go after he left Sunday’s game with a head injury.
Vrabel provided a positive update during his media availability.
“I do anticipate him being out there,” he said when asked if Gonzalez would be at practice on Wednesday.
Vrabel was also asked if the Texans represent the toughest defense the Patriots have faced this year. He responded simply, “Yes.”
“They have great talent, great scheme, they play hard — I respect how hard they play,” he said.
Vrabel also said Houston has “two really good bookends” in star defensive ends Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter.
The Patriots coach was also asked about all of the common ties between the New England and Houston coaching staffs, including that Texans offensive coordinator Nick Caley used to work as an assistant under Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
But will that familiarity help the Texans on Sunday?
“If they know what calls are coming, we should try to get those coaches,” Vrabel joked.
At his press conference Monday, Vrabel expressed optimism, saying that although his team’s offense showed some shortcomings in Sunday’s 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, his team played with a much-needed physicality on defense.
New England limited the Chargers to 207 total yards, the ninth time this season it held an opponent to fewer than 300 yards. The Patriots’ six sacks tied for the second-most in franchise playoff history.
“Everybody played. Everybody contributed,” Vrabel said. “Guys went down. Other guys went in there and stepped up. We play a lot of guys on defense. I think they all appreciate that. I think they all have roles.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
