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Drake Maye comments on the Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini controversy following boat disclosure.

Drake Maye comments on the Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini controversy following boat disclosure.

Patriots quarterback Drake Maye praised Mike Vrabel for his effective communication with the team, amidst a buzz about an alleged relationship involving the coach and former NFL insider Deanna Russini.

During an interview after the Twist Championship Pro-Am in Charlotte, Maye shared his thoughts on Vrabel’s situation, expressing confidence that it wouldn’t become a distraction for the defending AFC champions this upcoming season.

“No, I don’t,” Maye stated regarding concerns of distractions, while at Quail Hollow. “I think he’s our head coach, and he’s done a great job of keeping us informed and guiding us through it.”

Looking forward, he added, “I’m excited to get back to work and prepare.”

When prompted about setting the matter aside before the season kicks off, Maye emphasized, “I believe he has the right mindset. He’s a great person. I love playing for him.”

Recent reports suggested that Vrabel and Russini rented a private boat in June 2021, shortly before she welcomed her first child. Documents allegedly signed by both parties are part of the story, indicating that they spent a few hours on the boat in Tennessee.

At that time, Russini was covering the Titans for ESPN, and Vrabel was the head coach. Interestingly, they were cautious about photographs, with Russini reportedly avoiding images with staff, while Vrabel permitted just one but asked for it to remain private.

Russini gave birth to her son on August 7, 2021, naming him Michael. Both she and Vrabel have faced scrutiny, particularly since Page Six recently published images of them holding hands at a resort in Arizona.

Vrabel addressed the situation with reporters ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, mentioning that he had had discussions about it internally with the players. The Patriots have stood by him, particularly after he took time away from the draft to seek “counseling” for personal issues.

Russini also left her position at The Athletic, with the parent company undertaking an internal investigation related to the situation.

This marks the second occasion Maye has been questioned about Vrabel’s off-field issues; he reinforced the importance of supporting their coaches, remarking on the teamwork at a charitable event in Massachusetts. The Patriots are slated to begin a three-day rookie minicamp in Foxboro, Massachusetts, starting Friday.

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