Vrabel has defense for Belichick

First-time Pro Bowler Mike Vrabel says he won't retire as long as he can make plays. (Ronen Zilberman/Associated Press)

HONOLULU - Linebacker Mike Vrabel, a first-time Patriots Pro Bowler, vigorously defended coach Bill Belichick's departure from the field with one second left in New England's 17-14 Super Bowl loss to the Giants Sunday.

Belichick's brisk exit has been criticized by many media outlets and commentators and has been monologue fodder for late-night hosts such as David Letterman.

"Their team was on the field, the photographers were on the field. I think Bill did what any coach would do. He graciously gave them the victory," said Vrabel yesterday.

"We're not going to sit out there and steal their victory and celebration. What was Bill going to do? Pull all the photographers off? I think he gave all the credit to the Giants and I don't think anyone was trying to disrespect them. Everybody [on the Patriots] was upset, but when all of those people were on the field, what's Bill Belichick going to do to get them off?"

Vrabel appeared to be hurt in the fourth quarter after diving for a fumble, but he said the incident looked worse than it was.

"I hit my head on the turf," he said. "But we had a timeout, so I don't think I missed any time."

Vrabel, an 11-year veteran whose contract runs until 2009, will turn 33 in August. He's part of an aging linebacker corps that includes Tedy Bruschi (35 in June) and Junior Seau (who recently turned 39).

Was game No. 19 one game too many for them?

"I think when you lose, [age is] always a factor, but when we win, I don't think anyone really cares," said Vrabel. "When we win or make plays, we're experienced. When we lose, we're old. It's as simple as that."

The team's leader in sacks (12 1/2) acknowledged this was a very long season for the over-30 gang.

"We played a lot of snaps," he said. "But we got the guys we got out there. We weren't able to make the play at the end of the game, but I'd still go out there with that same crew and take our chances again."

Asked how much longer he thinks he can play, Vrabel shrugged and said, "I'm going to play until I can't make any more plays."