Mike Vrabel’s NFL Draft Plans Amid Scandal
Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the Patriots, is shaking things up ahead of the NFL Draft.
Speaking to reporters just 40 minutes before the draft kicked off, he found himself in the spotlight, especially after a buzzworthy moment in Page Six earlier that week. There was news about an interaction between Vrabel and NFL reporter Dianna Russini, including a photo of them kissing at a bar back in March 2020.
Vrabel shared that he would be skipping the draft’s final day to focus on counseling. “My family needs me this weekend, and I’m going to be there,” he explained.
He previously labeled the photo as “funny,” noting that he was “protecting my family.”
At that time, while coaching for the Titans, Vrabel was already married to Jen, with whom he had two sons. Russini was an ESPN affiliate then, and just months later, she married Shake Shack executive Kevin Goldschmidt.
An observer noted, “They were kissing and seemed really into each other,” pointing out that Vrabel was wearing a ring at the time.
This report follows another recent sighting of the two, where they were seen holding hands and hugging at a resort in Arizona.
On Wednesday, Vrabel reiterated his commitment to attend counseling and spend time with his family outside Massachusetts. Consequently, he will miss the last draft day, where the Patriots hold 11 picks overall, including the 31st in the first round.
“I promised my family, this organization, and this team that I’d give them my best,” he remarked. “To accomplish that, I’ve made the decision to start counseling this weekend. It’s something I’ve thought about a lot and would encourage players to consider it too.”
“I’ve always aimed to lead by example, and this is what I believe I must do to be the best husband, father, and coach. Admitting this isn’t easy, but I recognize it will make me a better person. I appreciate all the support and aim to come back with renewed determination,” he added.
Hours before his conference, the Patriots expressed their full support for Vrabel’s choice to prioritize family during this time. They acknowledged his transparency about striving to be the best for his family, team, and fans. “We respect the steps he’s taking to honor that commitment,” they said.
Despite his absence on Saturday, they assured that Vrabel’s evaluations were complete, and the staff was prepared to proceed with the draft.
After the scandal emerged two weeks ago, both parties downplayed the situation. Ms. Vrabel referred to the photo as “funny,” while Ms. Russini argued the image didn’t fully capture the group dynamic of six people hanging out that day.
Nonetheless, an internal investigation by The New York Times, which owns the sports publication, led to Russini’s resignation shortly after. Last week, the NFL confirmed it would not be investigating Vrabel’s conduct, and he faced no disciplinary action from the Patriots.
