US EditionNFL Fans React as Mike Vrabel Reportedly Skipping Patriots' Predraft Press Conference Amid Dianna Russini Controversy
Eliot Wolf was always set to speak on April 13, while the New York Times investigates Dianna Russini's conduct after photos with Mike Vrabel.
- On Monday, April 13, 2026, New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will not address reporters at the team's pre-draft press conference; VP of player personnel Eliot Wolf will speak instead.
- Earlier this month, photos surfaced showing Vrabel and New York Times NFL reporter Dianna Russini at the Ambiente resort in Sedona, Arizona, captured days before the NFL's annual league meeting in Phoenix.
- The New York Times is investigating Russini's ethical conduct, as editorial guidelines require journalists to avoid conflicts of interest with reporting subjects, and she will not report on the NFL during the inquiry.
- Vrabel told the New York Post the images depict a "completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable," while Russini noted reporters frequently interact with sources away from stadiums.
- The decision for Wolf to handle the pre-draft session was finalized in early March, predating the photograph release and investigation, though Vrabel addressed reporters during last year's draft.
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The Athletic investigates conduct of reporter photographed with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel - The Boston Globe
The Athletic’s editorial guidelines require that their journalists avoid any activities that pose a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict.
According to published photos of New England Patriot's Head Coach Mike Vrabel and a prominent NFL sports reporter, their employer "The Athletic" is now drawing consequences. It's about credibility.
Is Mike Vrabel Getting A Pass For Photos With Dianna Russini?
Nearly a week later, NFL reporter Dianna Russini remains one of the most talked-about subjects online. Last week, the New York Post published photos of Russini holding hands and lounging in a pool with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel.Both Russini and Vrabel issued statements denying any romantic relationship. Russini is now under investigation at The Athletic, and industry sources are skeptical she will return to the outlet.As for Vrabel,…
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