The Athletic NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned amid an ongoing scandal over an alleged intimate relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.
“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published,” Russini wrote in her resignation letter. “When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful. In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts.
“Moreover, this media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now—before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.”
Photos posted by Page Six showed Russini and Vrabel sharing an embrace and appearing in-water pool chairs side-by-side at Ambiente Sedona resort in Arizona. Vrabel, who is married, and Russini have vehemently denied a romantic relationship. The two were on separate trips — Russini with two friends, Vrabel with two at a different resort. Vrabel's group drove two hours to join Russini's for the day, according to both parties.
My take: Everyone involved said that it was just a fun day among friends. No reason not to believe them. It was a bad look for Russini, though, blurring that line between a reporter and those she covers.
THE ASYLUM
Russini resigns over scandal
The Athletic NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned amid an ongoing scandal over an alleged intimate relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.
“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published,” Russini wrote in her resignation letter. “When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful. In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts.
“Moreover, this media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now—before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.”
Photos posted by Page Six showed Russini and Vrabel sharing an embrace and appearing in-water pool chairs side-by-side at Ambiente Sedona resort in Arizona. Vrabel, who is married, and Russini have vehemently denied a romantic relationship. The two were on separate trips — Russini with two friends, Vrabel with two at a different resort. Vrabel's group drove two hours to join Russini's for the day, according to both parties.
My take: Everyone involved said that it was just a fun day among friends. No reason not to believe them. It was a bad look for Russini, though, blurring that line between a reporter and those she covers.
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!