New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel likely won the respect of his team Wednesday. However, he may have needed a few stitches afterward. 

The Patriots hosted a joint practice with the Washington Commanders at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. New England rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson took a Commanders pass-rusher to the ground in pass protection, resulting in a scuffle.

Vrabel then jumped in to help stop the fight. His face was bloodied after both teams calmed down. 

Patriots second-year quarterback Drake Maye loved that his coach was willing to step in. In a news conference after practice, the 22-year-old passer said that’s the mentality the team needs. 

“That’s what we’re trying to build,” he said. “The intensity, bringing it every day, taking no cr-p when we’re out on the field. But also, it comes a time where, with our guys offensively, and getting over there and getting some tussles and kind of having some penalties, and extra after the whistle, can get us in trouble. But for mentality, I like it. I mean, I almost got in there, but I think maybe another day, maybe.”  

His new coach doesn’t want the QB to get in any brawls. The Patriots are banking on the third overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft being the franchise’s future. 

Plus, he doesn’t need to worry about the Patriots’ intensity with Vrabel in the building. New England wide receiver DeMario Douglas noted the former linebacker didn’t seem rattled after breaking up the scrap. 

“I said, ‘Coach, what’s wrong with you?’ And he said, ‘You should have seen the other guy,'” Douglas told the media while smiling. “I just saw the scar on his face but didn’t know what was happening.” 

Vrabel likely sent two messages at Wednesday’s practice. He won’t tolerate an undisciplined team but also has his players’ backs. That could go a long way for a Patriots squad aiming to improve after a 4-13 season.