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 appears to have deactivated her X account.
Details of the Apology
Speaking at the New England Patriots’ facility about 30 minutes before the draft started, Vrabel expressed accountability for his actions. “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.”
“My priorities are 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,” Vrabel added.
Background on the Allegations
The controversy arose earlier this month with the release of photos showing Vrabel and Russini together at a luxury $2,500-a-night retreat in Sedona, Arizona. Additional images depicted them sharing breakfast. Further photos from March 11, 2020, captured the pair at the now-closed Tribeca Tavern in New York, where Vrabel served as coach of the Tennessee Titans and Russini covered the team for ESPN.
Sources close to the individuals maintain they were accompanied by friends in Arizona, though multiple eyewitnesses describe the pair as alone. Both Vrabel and Russini have denied any inappropriate conduct, calling the poolside and hugging photos misleading.
A witness to the 2020 bar encounter reported: “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.”
Professional Repercussions
Russini, who married Kevin Goldschmidt later that year, took a leave from The Athletic, underwent an investigation by its parent company, The New York Times, and ultimately resigned last week. Vrabel has been married to Jen since 1999; the couple has two children.
Earlier this week, Vrabel mentioned having “difficult conversations” with family, the organization, coaches, and players. On Wednesday, he disclosed seeking counseling and confirmed his absence from Day 3 of the draft.
Patriots’ Draft Plans and Support
The Patriots hold 11 picks, including No. 31 in the first round on Thursday, one each in rounds two and three on Friday, and multiple selections on Saturday—when Vrabel will be absent—in rounds four through seven.
The team issued a statement: “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.”
“We are confident in the leadership and communication Mike has established with our personnel staff throughout this pre-draft process. While he will not be present at the facility on Saturday, we know the draft evaluations are complete and Eliot Wolf and his personnel staff are prepared to execute our draft as planned this weekend,” the statement continued.
