NFL is not conducting a review of the situation involving Mike Vrabel and Diana Russini
An NFL spokesperson informed ESPN that the league is not conducting a review of Mike Vrabel after the release of photos featuring the New England Patriots coach alongside journalist Dianna Russini.
The league’s personal conduct policy mandates that players, coaches, and executives refrain from any behavior that could harm the integrity of, or public trust in, the National Football League.
On April 8, the New York Post’s Page Six shared photos of Vrabel and Russini together, holding hands and embracing at an adults-only hotel in Sedona, Arizona. The league convened its annual meetings in Phoenix from March 29 to April 1.
Vrabel, aged 50, and Russini, aged 43, are each in marriage. Vrabel said the photos were “completely innocent,” while Russini said they lacked context and didn’t show the other group members.
ESPN’s Friday story did not elicit any comments from either Vrabel or Russini.
Russini stepped down from her role as a lead NFL reporter at The Athletic on Tuesday, coinciding with an internal investigation regarding the nature of her relationship with Vrabel.
A spokesperson for the Patriots did not provide a response to ESPN’s inquiry regarding whether the team is examining the situation.
Vrabel assumed the role of head coach for the Patriots, the team he once played for, prior to the 2025 season and guided New England to Super Bowl LX. The Seattle Seahawks triumphed over the Patriots with a score of 29-13.
