Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Breaks Silence on Dianna Russini Photo Scandal
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is breaking his silence on the photo scandal involving former Athletic reporter Dianna Russini.
Vrabel, 50, who played for the NFL for 14 seasons and rose to stardom as a linebacker for the Pats, spoke to the press about the uproar for the first time in a video obtained by WBZ's Dan Roche.
"I understand I could have addressed you sooner, but it was important to me I have a conversation with the players, which I did yesterday very candidly," Vrabel shared during a pre-NFL draft press conference at Gillette Stadium on Tuesday, noting that he had "some difficult conversations" with people he "care[s] about."
Including discussions with his "family," as well as the Patriots organization, Vrabel said the talks were "positive and productive."
"We believe in order to be successful, you have to make good decisions," he said. "That starts with me. You never want your actions to negatively affect the team … or be the cause of a distraction."
Sharing that he's "excited" to coach the team with "humility and focus," Vrabel leaned in hard when emphasizing how much he cares about coaching the Patriots. He also noted that he's kept some questions and comments from the team private.
"What I can promise you is my family, this organization, this team, the staff, the coaches, and the fans, most importantly, will get the best version of me going forward," he stated.
Mike Vrabel statement - @wbzpic.twitter.com/FrHjmgbz0W
— Dan Roche (@RochieWBZ) April 21, 2026
Vrabel and Russini Said the Photos Were Misleading
After photos published in the New York Post showed Russini and Vrabel hanging out by a pool, in a hot tub, and on a rooftop deck at the Ambiente luxury hotel in Sedona, Vrabel and Russini both said the photos were misleading. Athletic Executive Editor Steven Ginsberg also echoed their sentiments, telling NBC News that the photos are "misleading and lack essential context."
"These were public interactions in front of many people," Ginsberg said. "Dianna is a premier journalist covering the NFL and we're proud to have her at The Athletic."
Russini Resigned From Her Job Last Week
Despite their statements, Russini still resigned from her role. She announced her resignation from her job at the publication last week, NBC News shared.
"I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published," Russini said in a letter sent to Athletic executive editor Steven Ginsberg, according to a screenshot she posted on X.
I submitted my letter of resignation to The Athletic. Everything I have to say about it is below. pic.twitter.com/401nrtbEsj
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 14, 2026
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This story was originally published April 21, 2026 at 10:20 AM.