NFL Won't Discipline Mike Vrabel Over Dianna Russini Photos

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Apr 18, 2026 10:14 AM ET

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel has been in the headlines quite a bit ever since Page Six shared photos of him hanging out with NFL insider Dianna Russini at a hotel in Sedona, Arizona.

Vrabel and Russini were seen hugging and holding hands in the photos obtained by Page Six. According to Front Office Sports, these pictures were shopped around by an anonymous tipper who was seeking a four-figure payday. Both Vrabel and Russini released statements last week, denying any rumors about a romantic relationship.

"These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable," Vrabel told the New York Post. "These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable."

While Russini has already resigned from her position with The Athletic, there haven't been many updates on Vrabel's future with the Patriots.

Jan 11, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel looks on during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images© Eric Canha-Imagn Images.

NFL players, coaches and executives are told to avoid "conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the National Football League." Fans are convinced Vrabel's controversial encounter with Russini puts the Patriots and the entire league in a difficult spot.

Interestingly enough, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told ESPN's Ben Strauss that Vrabel's behavior is not being reviewed under the personal conduct policy.

Will Mike Vrabel address the media?

As of this moment, Vrabel isn't scheduled to speak to the media until the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday.

According to Michael Holley of NBC Sports Boston, players on the Patriots will eventually "demand answers" from their head coach.

“I talked to a former player and he said, ‘The hell they won’t want answers. You think Mike Vrabel can just brush this under the rug without talking to the players? Coaching don’t treat us like they treat the media.’ I think Vrabel will have to say something to his team,” an anonymous player told Holley. “I think he’s gonna have to answer to something that’s been in the news for a while. For his credibility he’s gonna have to say something to the team.”

Vrabel was exceptional for the Patriots in 2025, leading them to a 14-3 record and Super Bowl appearance. It'll be interesting to see if this situation impacts the team at all this upcoming season.

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

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