Patriots issue surprise statement amid Mike Vrabel's decision to get counseling

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel has caught into another controversy after new photos emerged, showing Vrabel with NFL reporter Dianna Russini at a NYC bar in March 2020.

Earlier on Tuesday, April 21, Vrabel spoke out during a press conference and revealed the decision of seeking counseling ahead of NFL draft day.

Vrabel said he won’t be available for the Patriots ahead of the NFL Day 3 draft scheduled for Saturday, April 25.

After Vrabel’ decision to seek counseling, Patriots have issued a statement amid the Arizona bar controversy getting louder, involving NFL reporter Dianna Russini.

The New England Patriots vouched for head coach Mike Vrable on Thursday night, April 23, 2026.

“The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel’s decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being,” the statement said.

Backing Vrabel’s approach of becoming a best version of himself, the statement added, “Mike has been open with us about his commitment to being the best version of himself for his family, this team and our fans, and we respect that steps he is taking to follow through on that commitment.”

The Patriots have reimposed their confidence in Vrabel’s leadership, stating, “We are confident in the leadership and communication Mike has established with our personnel staff throughout this pre-draft process.”

In what appears to be another round of media scrutiny, photos have surfaced from 2020 showing Vrabel and Russini in an intimate moment at a NYC bar.

The pictures were published by the New York Post, which were snapped in the early hours of March 11, 2020, per the outlet's report.

Who is Dianna Russini married to?

The former Athletic reporter Dianna Russini is married to Kevin Goldschmidt, and the couple share two children.

While Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is also married to Jen (1999), and they share two sons.