New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel announced he will skip the third day of the NFL Draft in April 2026 to focus on his family and seek counseling.
Why it matters: Vrabel's decision comes in the aftermath of photos showing him with sports reporter Dianna Russini, raising questions about their relationship and its impact on their families.
Vrabel, 50, confirmed he will take a break from coaching to spend time with his wife Jen and their two sons.
The coach has been based in Massachusetts since early 2025 when he was appointed head coach of the Patriots.
Executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and vice president Ryan Cowden will lead the draft in Vrabel's absence.
Driving the news: The controversy began after images surfaced of Vrabel and Russini at an Arizona hotel, where they were seen holding hands and embracing.
Initially, both Vrabel and Russini denied any romantic involvement, claiming the photos were taken out of a larger group setting.
Vrabel stated, "These photos show a completely innocent interaction, and any suggestion otherwise is laughable," in response to the speculation.
Russini echoed this sentiment, saying, "The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day."
State of play: The fallout from the photos has led to personal and professional repercussions for both individuals.
Vrabel admitted to having difficult conversations with his family and the Patriots organization, stating these discussions have been positive and productive.
He emphasized the importance of making good decisions, saying, "We never want our actions to negatively affect the team."
Russini resigned from her position at The Athletic on April 14, 2026, citing the media frenzy surrounding the incident.
The big picture: The situation raises broader questions about the intersection of personal lives and professional responsibilities in the sports industry.
Vrabel and Russini both have families; Vrabel has two sons, and Russini is married to Kevin Goldschmidt, with whom she shares two children.
Public concern has emerged over the impact of the situation on their families, especially as both have young children.
Russini’s resignation reflects the pressure journalists face when their personal lives become intertwined with their professional roles.
What they're saying: Both parties have expressed their commitment to their families and their professions.
In his statement, Vrabel said, "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."
Russini, in her resignation letter, wrote, "I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it oxygen or let it define me or my career."
Supporters have expressed concern for both Vrabel and Russini, emphasizing the need for privacy as they navigate the fallout.
By the numbers: The financial implications of this situation are notable as well.
Russini's departure from The Athletic comes before her contract was set to expire on June 30, 2026.
Vrabel sold his Nashville home for $4.8 million in October 2024, having purchased it for $1.9 million in 2018.
He also acquired another property in Brentwood, TN, for $1.78 million, which adds complexity to his financial situation as he navigates these personal challenges.
What's next: The immediate future for both Vrabel and Russini involves a focus on family and personal growth.
Vrabel is expected to spend the weekend away from Massachusetts with his family, though the exact location remains undisclosed.
It is unclear when Vrabel will return to the Patriots, but he has committed to undergoing counseling.
Russini’s next steps in her career remain uncertain following her resignation, as she has not publicly announced future plans.