Overview
- Bullen was elevated from outside linebackers coach after interim head coach Mike Kafka fired defensive coordinator Shane Bowen last week.
- The game at Gillette Stadium marks Bullen’s debut as an NFL defensive play-caller on Monday night.
- Practices featured renewed tackling periods with cross-position instruction, signaling a back-to-basics focus under the new coordinator.
- Players have voiced support for Bullen, whose work with Brian Burns includes an NFC-leading 13 sacks this season.
- New England’s Mike Vrabel said sweeping changes in a week are unlikely, though Bullen’s Vance Joseph ties point to a possible tilt toward more pressure for a defense ranked 30th overall and last against the run.