Feb 3, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel speaks to the media during Super Bowl LX press conference at Santa Clara Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

Mike Vrabel Skipping Press Conference Amid Dianna Russini Situation

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated Apr 12, 2026 11:58 AM ET

The New England Patriots will host a pre-NFL Draft press conference for the media on Monday, April 13.

However, Mike Vrabel will not be present.

The head coach of the New England Patriots was in attendance at last year's press conference, answering questions from the media. However, this year, days after the Dianna Russini story broke, Vrabel is apparently skipping it.

According to ESPN NFL reporter Mike Reiss, Vrabel won't be speaking.

“Vrabel -- who has been in the news this week, as The Athletic is reinvestigating the coverage of NFL reporter Dianna Russini and the nature of her relationship with him, sources familiar with the matter told ESPN -- isn’t expected to address reporters until the draft.”

The New York Post's Page Six published photos of Vrabel and Russini lounging at a seclusive Arizona resort, ahead of the league meetings.

Vrabel and Russini, who are both married, were seen lounging by the pool in swimsuits, hanging out in the hot tub and interlocking fingers on a rooftop.

Both Vrabel and Russini have denied the speculation surrounding the photos.

“These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response.”

Russini is now under investigation

Russini is being investigated by the New York Times for her conduct.

The New York Times' Katie Robertson reported Saturday that Russini will not be reporting until the investigation is over.

The Athletic has strict editorial guidelines.

“When reporting and writing stories we do not have an agenda and it is important that our readers understand that,” read the guidelines. “If our readers question our adherence to that basic tenet of journalism, our credibility will be at stake. To maintain the highest form of authority we should avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest and reveal those sources or affiliations that may put into question our ability to be credible. For instance, writers who have collaborated with a source — athlete, GM, team official or broadcaster — on a book should not report on that subject going forward. In addition, written permission from editorial leadership is needed to pursue a project of that nature.”

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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