New details reveal just how close Mike Vrabel came to taking over the New York Jets, a move that would have placed him opposite the New England Patriots twice every season.

What once sounded like an outlandish claim now seems like a reality.

Jets' Interest in Mike Vrabel Very Real and Serious

Mike Vrabel Becomes 'Almost' a Jet Until a Last-Second Patriots Mike Vrabel Becomes 'Almost' a Jet Until a Last-Second Patriots
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According to Sports Illustrated insider Albert Breer, both Vrabel and the Jets showed true mutual interest during New York's offseason coaching search. Just two days after Vrabel's contract with the Cleveland Browns expired, the Jets invited him to a private dinner at The Capital Grille in Parsippany, New Jersey.

The following day, Vrabel sat through a full schedule of meetings, impressing team officials with his vision and leadership.

Breer pointed out that the Jets had done extensive background checks, and what they'd heard about Vrabel's tenure in Tennessee was not universally positive: there were a number of accusations that he had been divisive. But this interview wasn't anything like that.

"One person who was there told me he came off as very thoughtful, smart, caring. He clearly had a vision for his team. And he said, 'We (the Jets) came away thinking, 'Why would you fire this guy?' So, they had a big interest in bringing him back for a second interview."

Patriots' Firing of Jerod Mayo Affects Entire Coaching Trend

Everything changed when the Patriots surprisingly let go of head coach Jerod Mayo, a mere 90 minutes after their Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills. The moment Robert Kraft released his statement, Vrabel instantly became the perceived frontrunner in New England.

According to NBC Sports, Breer pointed out that the Patriots fast-tracked their hiring process, performing rapid interviews to meet the Rooney Rule requirements, and didn't afford the Jets any opportunity to bring back Vrabel for a second meeting. In days, the Patriots had locked up the head coach.

Behind-the-Scenes Calls Reveal Jets' Desperation to Keep Vrabel

SNY's Connor Hughes added even more fuel to the story, reporting that the Jets were "in love" with Vrabel after their interview. He said Vrabel was their absolute top choice - so much so that the Jets called him in late as he was heading to New England, asking what it would take to keep him. It was reportedly more money, full control, and anything else he wanted.

Less than 10 days after meeting with the New York Jets, despite their aggressive push, Vrabel accepted the Patriots' offer.

Despite the disappointment in New York, Breer said Vrabel remained on good terms with several in the Jets organization. When the internal issues cropped up, Vrabel even reached out to those he'd connected with during the process, which clearly left a mark.