New photos have emerged showing New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL reporter Dianna Russini kissing at a New York City bar six years ago. The images, obtained by Page Six, appear to date back to March 11, 2020, when Vrabel was coaching the Tennessee Titans and wearing his wedding ring. At the time, Russini was six months away from marrying Shake Shack executive Kevin Goldschmidt.
The photos come weeks after the pair were pictured holding hands and hugging at a luxury resort in Arizona. Russini subsequently resigned from her role as senior NFL insider at The Athletic, where she covered Vrabel’s team. The Athletic confirmed that an investigation into her conduct is ongoing, with executive editor Steven Ginsberg stating that “additional information emerged” and “new questions were raised”.
Vrabel addressed the initial photos earlier this week, telling the media he has had “difficult conversations with people I care about”, including his family, coaching staff, and players. He announced that he would be seeking counselling, starting this weekend, and will miss part of the NFL draft. The Patriots issued a statement of support, saying they respect Vrabel’s decision to prioritise his family and well-being.
In her resignation letter, Russini affirmed that she covered the NFL “with professionalism and dedication” and stood by every story she published. The New York Times, which owns The Athletic, noted that the nature of her relationship with Vrabel and her coverage were being reviewed. The NFL has confirmed it is not investigating the matter.
