The New England Patriots have reaffirmed their support for head coach Mike Vrabel as new photographs of him and NFL reporter Dianna Russini were published on Thursday. Russini resigned from her position at The Athletic last week after the New York Post released images of the pair embracing and holding hands at an Arizona resort. Both individuals are married to other people and have described their relationship as platonic.
Vrabel to Undergo Counseling
On Wednesday, Vrabel announced that he will miss the third day of the NFL draft on Saturday to attend counseling in the aftermath of the controversy. Speaking before Thursday's draft, he stated, "My priorities are my family and this football team. In that order. ... My family needs me this weekend, and that's where I'll be."
New Images Surface
Earlier on Thursday, additional photos were published by Page Six, showing Vrabel and Russini together at a New York bar in 2020, while TMZ released images of the pair at a Mississippi casino in 2024.
Patriots' Statement
The Patriots issued a statement on Thursday expressing their full backing for Vrabel. "The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel's decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own wellbeing. Mike has been open with us about his commitment to being the best version of himself for his family, this team and our fans, and we respect the steps he is taking to follow through on that commitment," the statement read. "We are confident in the leadership and communication Mike has established with our personnel staff throughout this pre-draft process. While he will not be present at the facility on Saturday, we know the draft evaluations are complete and Eliot Wolf and his personnel staff are prepared to execute our draft as planned this weekend."
NFL's Position
The NFL previously stated that it will not investigate Vrabel regarding the original photos. The league's personal conduct policy stipulates that "everyone who is part of the league must refrain from 'conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in' the NFL."
Vrabel's Achievements
Vrabel led the Patriots to the Super Bowl in February, where they lost to the Seattle Seahawks, in his first season with the team. He was named Associated Press Coach of the Year for transforming a team that had a 4-13 record the previous season.
Russini's Resignation
Russini announced her resignation on April 14 amid an internal investigation at The Athletic. In a letter to executive editor Steven Ginsberg, she said, "I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published. When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful. In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts."
