Mike Vrabel retains challenge-flag duties for Patriots after NFL rule change
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 4:07 AM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
On August 14, 2026, Mike Vrabel confirmed he will keep the challenge-flag duties as head coach of the New England Patriots. The NFL recently updated its rule to allow coaches to designate someone else to throw the flag prior to each game. Despite the new allowance, Vrabel's decision to continue throwing the flag himself was reinforced by his actions during a recent game. He expressed surprise that this aspect received significant attention, noting that the officials would typically ask about the designated flag thrower before games.
- •Vrabel confirmed he will keep throwing the challenge flag.
- •NFL rules now allow coaches to delegate this responsibility.
- •Vrabel's choice comes amid rule adjustments for the 2026 season.
- •Officials inquire about flag duties before each game.
- 4:07 AMYahoo Sports — Mike Vrabel won't be delegating challenge-flag duties
"The NFL has tweaked the rules to allow head coaches to delegate before each game the task of physically throwing the red challenge flag.
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