Mike Vrabel feels more and more like the next head coach of the New England Patriots as the first week after the regular season progresses.

There’s an argument to draw out the interview process in New England to maximize options. There’s also the argument to strike while the iron’s hot.

That’s where NFL insider Peter Schrager stands on the Patriots’ pursuit of Vrabel, as he emphasized in a recent conversation with FS1’s Colin Cowherd.

“If I’m the New England Patriots and I’m Mike Vrabel, I’m getting that thing done as soon as possible,” Schrager shared on “The Herd” Wednesday. “It makes so much sense, Colin. They not only have Drake Maye, who was outstanding this season despite a porous offense line and no skill position players. They have $130 million in cap space. There is a lot to like there. For as many people who have burned bridges with the Patriots organization and go out kicking and screaming, Mike Vrabel was traded by the Patriots, traded by the Bill Belichick regime and yet has come full circle.”

Schrager emphasized that withstanding positive relationship with the Patriots through Vrabel’s team hall of fame status and his current social media profile picture. New England already fulfilled Rooney Rule requirements after interviews with Pep Hamilton and Byron Leftwich. It’s hard to find a more sensible move for the Patriots in need of sensibility to expedite a deep rebuild.

Vrabel already interviewed with the New York Jets with an in-person advantage thanks to a pre-planned Week 17 exit of his consulting contract with the Cleveland Browns.

“That might’ve rattled the cage a bit in New England,” Schrager added. “They make their move. They’re out with Mayo. They can meet with Mike Vrabel in person where I assure you there will be warm feelings. … This thing could be done by Thursday if they want it to be.”