Patriots’ Mike Vrabel Seeking Counseling After Dianna Russini Scandal

by

Mike Vrabel is starting a journey to self-improvement after a particularly rough month. 

Following the release of viral photos showing him and NFL reporter Dianna Russini on vacation, the New England Patriots head coach recently spoke out about the situation. He also explained why he wouldn’t be attending the NFL draft.

In a statement to ESPN on April 22nd, Vrabel said he’s committed to getting counseling starting that weekend, explaining that he wants to be the best he can be for his family, the organization, and his team. He made a promise to all of them to do so.

I’ve been following the NFL draft closely, and I heard that even though it continues until April 25th, Coach Vrabel won’t be there. He actually explained his reasons for missing it, which I found really interesting.

I’ve thought about this a lot, and if I were advising a player, this is exactly what I’d recommend,” the coach explained. “I’ve always believed in leading by example, and I feel this is necessary for me to be the best husband, father, and coach I can be.”

Okay, so Coach Vrabel is 50, can you believe it? And his sons, Tyler and Carter, are all grown up – 25 and 24! He just said that choosing not to enter the draft was a really tough call, but he honestly thinks it’s going to help him grow as a person. I just… I admire him so much for prioritizing that kind of self-improvement. It’s amazing, honestly. And Jen Vrabel is the best, supporting him through it all!

Vrabel thanked everyone for their support and pledged to work even harder moving forward.

Only a few days before, the retired NFL player had revealed he was having tough talks with family and friends after the controversy involving Jenn Sterger.

He stated in a press conference on April 21st that he’s been supported by his family, the organization, coaches, and players, and that this support has been positive and helpful. He emphasized that success, both in football and in life, requires making good choices, and that responsibility begins with him personally.

Okay, so after those photos of her and Vrabel came out, and everyone started talking, Russini actually quit her job at The Athletic just a week later! It’s crazy. They both said there was nothing going on, that the pictures weren’t what they seemed – Page Six was the first to post them, remember? – but still, she left. I’ve been following this so closely, and it’s just…wow. I need to know everything!

In a statement on April 14th, Russini explained she wouldn’t participate in the public inquiry, stating it had already been too damaging. She decided to leave her position immediately, before her contract ended on June 30th, not because she believed the accusations, but to prevent the situation from escalating further and overshadowing her work.

Read More

2026-04-23 19:17