3 Former Boston Players Are Now in Charge of Their Old Teams

Let me take you back to the early 2000s.

Boy bands were on top of the charts, jeans were ultra low rise and New Englanders were experiencing something they'd only dreamt of in sports: winning.

Between the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins, all had or were on their way to a championship by the end of the mid-00s.

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Boston's Head Coaches

Now, the players you loved to watch 20 years ago are the ones calling the shots for Boston.

Three of Boston's biggest teams – the Red Sox, Patriots and Bruins – all have former players taking the lead for the 2025 season.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora started the trend, followed by Mike Vrabel for the New England Patriots and most recently, Marco Sturm, new head coach of the Boston Bruins.

Alex Cora's Playing Career

Cora has been the manager of the Boston Red Sox since October of 2017.

He played with Boston for a short time, from 2005 to 2008, but he certainly made his time count.

READ MORE: Catching Up With Former Red Sox Johnny Damon

Cora was part of the 2007 Word Series Championship team.

Mike Vrabel's Playing Career

The former linebacker began his career with the Patriots as a free agent in 2001 and quickly became a household name for Pats Nation.

READ MORE: Tears of Joy From Patriots' First-Round Draft Pick 

Vrabel's contributions to the defensive line helped New England create the dynasty of the early 00s, winning three Super Bowls with the team.

In addition to his championship wins, Vrabel was named to Patriots' 50th Anniversary Team, All-Dynasty Team, All-2000s Team and is a Patriots Hall of Famer.

Marco Sturm's Playing Career

Former left winger Marco Sturm is taking his skills to the bench this season. The Bruins' new head coach is no stranger to the team; he played for the Black and Gold for a few seasons in the early 2000s.

READ MORE: Here's Why Boston Takes the Title for Best Hockey Town

Sturm, who hails from Germany, played with the Bs from 2005-2010, his second NHL team after being drafted by the San Jose Sharks.

His talent and grit on the ice will hopefully carry over to his new role as head coach.