Per the incomparable Mike Reiss of ESPN, Mike Vrabel won’t be in the brand new Patriots draft room at the New Balance Athletics Center on Saturday.

Reiss reported very early this morning that Vrabel is seeking counseling.

“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend,” Vrabel told Reiss. “This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.

“I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”

Reiss also reported that Vrabel plans on spending time with his wife Jen and his family outside of Massachusetts this weekend, but does plan on being in contact with the team.

Obviously, with everything going on, family comes first for Vrabel, and this is now a huge opportunity for Eliot Wolf, Ryan Cowden, Alonzo Highsmith and others when it comes to maneuvering through the final few rounds on Saturday.

You also can’t help but wonder if the Patriots know that they’ll be moving a few of the eight picks they have on Saturday as well, making this an easier time for Vrabel to take care of what he needs to.

Either way, Vrabel is choosing to do what he feels is necessary and there’s a reason the Patriots – and every other NFL organization – have general managers and a plethora of other staff members to work through the draft.