This move couldn't come at a better time for the Cowboys, whose linebacker play has been among the worst in the NFL this season. Missed tackles, poor pursuit angles, and communication breakdowns have plagued the unit week after week, leaving the middle of the field exposed to both the run and short passing attacks. The Cowboys have desperately lacked a physical, instinctive presence at linebacker since losing DeMarvion Overshown to injury, and the defense as a whole has suffered because of it.
The Northeast Ohio native said he grew up a Browns fan and liked being able to contribute to the franchise while between head coaching jobs. "I enjoyed that time. I enjoyed the people there, that organization," Vrabel said on Monday. "I enjoyed working with [coach] Kevin [ Stefanski], the offensive staff, Tommy Rees and Chad [ O'Shea]. I played with Bubba [ Ventrone]. So, a lot of good, young coaches. Jim Schwartz, I had a really good relationship with Schwartzy."