The New York Times has published private text messages from former NFL insider Dianna Russini concerning the scandal involving New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, despite Russini's explicit request that they not be quoted. The publication of these comments came as part of a broader investigation into Russini and the scandal that has recently captivated the NFL offseason.
Russini, who previously worked for The Athletic, where she was reportedly one of the highest-paid journalists, left the outlet days after intimate photos of her and Vrabel at an Arizona resort surfaced in early April. Both Russini and Vrabel are married with children.
In response to an interview request for the New York Times piece, Russini communicated via text message, detailing the "intense scrutiny and personal attacks" she had endured. She added that the situation had "significantly impacted my life, both professionally and personally." The New York Times reported that Russini asked the reporter not to quote from this exchange, but as no agreement was made to keep the messages off the record, they were included in the published article. Upon learning that parts of her messages would be used, Russini reportedly objected in an email to The Athletic's publisher and two senior New York Times editors.
Russini has consistently denied any affair with Vrabel, stating in her resignation announcement that she stands by all her published work. Vrabel also initially denied the affair, claiming he and Russini were at the resort with friends. However, he later stated he had begun counseling to "be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be." This commitment led him to miss the third day of the NFL Draft with the Patriots.
Unhappiness Over Podcast Remarks
The New York Times investigation also highlighted an incident where bosses at The Athletic were reportedly displeased that Russini shared on a podcast how she used her connection with an NFL head coach to avoid a traffic ticket. She recounted on the "Stugotz and Company" podcast being stopped for texting while driving with her two sons. She stated she avoided a ticket by having the head coach of the police officer's favorite team speak with the officer on FaceTime, though this coach was not Vrabel.
A spokesperson for The Times Company, Danielle Rhoades Ha, characterized this as "unacceptable conduct." It later emerged that Russini had not sought or received permission to appear on the podcast, which was a requirement.
The report also detailed that Russini and Vrabel spent time together at the NFL's annual meeting in Phoenix the day after the intimate photos were taken in Sedona. Witnesses claimed Russini was seen bringing drinks to a group that included Vrabel and other NFL coaches on the patio of the Arizona Biltmore hotel, and would "periodically stop to sit on the arm of the sofa next to where Vrabel sat."
Ongoing Investigation and Frustration
Meanwhile, The Athletic staffers have reportedly expressed frustration over the prolonged nature of their internal investigation into Russini's relationship with Vrabel, which is said to still be "weeks away" from completion. Steven Ginsberg, Russini's former boss at The Athletic, initially defended her before she was placed on leave and subsequently resigned after "additional information emerged." Ginsberg informed staff that the investigation was complex and required careful deliberation, promising updates when it concludes and stating that any necessary corrections would be made along the way.
The news of the investigation's continued delay is unlikely to be welcomed by Vrabel as he prepares for the upcoming NFL season. He had previously emphasized his commitment to his family, the organization, and the team, stating his decision to seek counseling was intended to allow him to give them his best.