New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will step away from team duties to seek counseling amid a scandal involving photos of him embracing former The Athletic reporter Dianna Russini. Vrabel will miss the third day of the NFL Draft on Saturday, prioritizing his personal growth and family commitments.
Vrabel's Statement on Counseling
“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend,” Vrabel said Wednesday, per ESPN. “This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I were counseling them.”
The Patriots coach emphasized leading by example, stating that counseling is necessary to become “the best husband, father and coach” he can be. “This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person,” Vrabel continued. “I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”
Plans to Spend Weekend with Family
According to ESPN, Vrabel plans to be with his wife Jen and their two sons outside of Massachusetts this weekend. Despite his absence, he will remain in contact with the team during the final day of the draft. He expressed confidence in Eliot Wolf, executive vice president of player personnel, and Ryan Cowden, vice president of player personnel, to lead the draft proceedings.
Background of the Scandal
The controversy began when the New York Post published photos appearing to show Vrabel embracing Russini at a resort in Arizona. Vrabel addressed the media on Tuesday, calling the situation a “personal and private matter” and noting that he’s had “difficult conversations with people I care about — with my family, the organizations, the coaches, the players.” He described those conversations as “positive and productive,” emphasizing the need to make good decisions for success on and off the field. “That starts with me,” he added.
Russini, who was fired by The Athletic over the scandal, was spotted with Vrabel having breakfast at the Abiente resort in Sedona, Arizona, on March 28. An unnamed source told Page Six that the pair dined alone, though a source close to Russini claimed they were with a group of friends. The two reportedly tried to remain low-key by walking separately after the meal.
