Hopkins and Vrabel have a long history. The two spent four years in Houston together (2014-17) when Vrabel was an assistant with the Texans, and reunited for one year at Tennessee in 2023, Vrabel’s final season as head coach with the Titans.
“(Hopkins) and I talked, and he asked if he could come hang out for a few days and be around the coaches and be in the personnel department,” he said. “I called the department and was sure it would be fine. Then I invited him back, and he has been there for the last few days and he will be here for the next few days.”
Testing the coaching waters could be a backup option if nothing materializes for Hopkins to step between the lines in 2026.
“He’s got coaching gear and he’s helping the offensive coaches and meeting with our staff,” Vrabel added. “He loves football. People who love football and have played the game as long as he did.” [want] that I think exploring the opportunities and what it looks like after his playing career is over.”