Crissy Froyd, an NFL and college football reporter, maintains her stance on a pointed social media critique of Dianna Russini despite her recent termination from USA Today SMG.
Froyd’s Termination and Initial Post
USA Today SMG dismissed Froyd on Thursday, effective immediately, following her comments on Russini’s resignation from The Athletic. The publication stated that her remarks fail to align with its standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Russini, 43, stepped down from the New York Times-owned outlet on Tuesday amid allegations of an affair with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, 50. Both Russini and Vrabel deny the claims. Suggestive photos surfaced last week, showing the pair hugging, relaxing poolside, and laughing at a luxury $2,500-per-night resort in Sedona, Arizona.
In response to Russini’s resignation letter, Froyd posted: “I’m sure you were told to submit this or that you’d get fired instead. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out. We know who you really are and what you’ve been up to for years. It does so much detriment to women in sports who have done things the right way.”
Froyd Doubles Down
Although Froyd expresses being “beyond distraught” over the firing, she holds no regrets. In a post on X, she declared: “I would like to acknowledge the statements put out about me recently and that I am also no longer with USA TODAY SMG. I regret zero of what I said and stand beside it.” She added, “I feel I’ve been very transparent and did nothing wrong.”
Froyd pointed to a column by fellow USA Today reporter Nancy Armour, which criticized Russini for jeopardizing the credibility of women in sports. Froyd questioned the differing treatment: “I also find it so interesting that a Nancy Armour column was able to be published about Dianna Russini setting women back on USAT, but that my comments as a freelancer on my own social media about her were not fine.”
In a separate statement, Froyd leveled further accusations, claiming: “From fights with other reporters in Chili’s parking lots about hooking up with married NFL coaches to everything else, it is almost certainly all true. It was the worst kept secret in the NFL reporting world for a while.” She also revealed declining a mentorship offer involving Russini due to her known reputation.
Froyd clarified she harbors no personal vendetta and simply spoke out when the moment felt right. She looks ahead optimistically: “I am looking forward to what is next and I do walk away with my head held high.”
Russini’s Response
Russini has not addressed the latest allegations publicly beyond her resignation letter. She emphasized: “I do so [resign] not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.”
Russini affirmed her professional record: “I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published.” She noted The Athletic’s initial support following the Page Six report.
