Vrabel’s presence gives Patriots training camp a different feel. Players said that’s also the case. For example, he’s been wearing a pinnie with the No. 5, which belongs to Jabrill Peppers. The veteran safety said he told Vrabel to find a new number.

For his pre-practice press conference prior to the team’s first official day of training camp, Vrabel strode to the microphone on Wednesday with a puppy named Nash clutched under his arm. It’s part of the team’s second Pet Adoption Day (sponsored by the Kraft family via The Patriots Foundation in coordination with local animal shelters).

When the New England Patriots hired Mike Vrabel to be their head coach, they knew they were getting a no-nonsense leader who wouldn't tolerate any shenanigans.