New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft delivered a strong endorsement of coach Mike Vrabel on ESPN’s “First Take” at Fanatics Fest NYC 2026 on Friday. The coach has endured a tumultuous offseason amid scrutiny surrounding his reported relationship with famous NFL insider Dianna Russini.

Shae Cornette asked how the Patriots have navigated the offseason amid the intense backlash against the coach, months after appearing in the Super Bowl. Kraft’s response offered clarity on Vrabel’s standing within the organization, emphasizing performance over personal matters.

Stephen A. Smith threw a follow-up question to Robert Kraft, asking him why he only “hopes” and not “knows” what the future looks like for Mike Vrabel at the franchise. The 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist offered further clarification on his previous statement about the coach’s future.

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Robert Kraft is very confident the Patriots will maintain their top-level performance in 2026 despite how the offseason went. He offered an insight into his high expectations on “First Take,” noting his sons often have to remind him to dial it back when looking ahead.

The Patriots obviously exceeded the expectations of many with what they achieved last season. They played in the Super Bowl for the first time in the post-Tom Brady era. Robert Kraft appears confident that they are going all out for the team’s seventh Lombardi Trophy next season.

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