Mike Vrabel delivered a heartfelt apology to his family shortly before the NFL Draft began on Thursday night, addressing allegations of an affair with reporter Dianna Russini. At the same time, Russini appeared to deactivate her X account.
Vrabel’s Statement at Patriots Facility
Speaking from the New England Patriots’ facility about 30 minutes prior to the draft’s start, a somber Vrabel accepted full responsibility. “I take accountability for my actions and the actions that caused a distraction to people I care most about,” he stated. “My previous actions don’t meet the standard that I hold myself to. I need to take the necessary steps to work together and to give them the best version of myself. That has started, will continue this weekend and will continue for however long it takes.”
He emphasized his priorities: “My family and this football team—in that order—and there is a balance I’m going to create. My family needs me this weekend and that’s where I’ll be.”
Background of the Controversy
The scandal erupted earlier this month with photos surfacing of Vrabel and Russini at a luxury $2,500-per-night retreat in Sedona, Arizona. Additional images depicted them sharing breakfast. Newer photos revealed the pair at the now-closed Tribeca Tavern in New York on March 11, 2020, during Vrabel’s tenure as Tennessee Titans coach while Russini covered the team for ESPN.
Sources near Vrabel and Russini maintain they were accompanied by friends in Arizona, though multiple eyewitnesses describe the two as alone. Both deny any inappropriate conduct, calling the poolside and hugging photos misleading.
An eyewitness from the 2020 bar encounter recounted: “They were kissing and they were all over each other. He had a ring on. They were having a glorious time, giving each other pecks constantly. There was nobody in there. Nobody knew who they were.” Russini married Kevin Goldschmidt later that year, while Vrabel has been wed to Jen since 1999. Each has two children.
Recent Developments and Team Impact
Earlier in the week, Vrabel discussed challenging talks with family, the organization, coaches, and players. On Wednesday, he disclosed pursuing counseling and confirmed his absence from Day 3 of the draft.
The Patriots hold 11 picks, including No. 31 in the first round Thursday, one each in rounds two and three Friday, and most on Saturday—when Vrabel will be absent—with selections in rounds four through seven.
Russini underwent an internal investigation by her employer, leading to her placement on leave before she resigned last week.
Patriots’ Official Response
The team issued a statement of support: “The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel’s decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being. 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.”
Officials expressed confidence in the staff, noting completed evaluations and readiness led by Eliot Wolf.
