NFL Reporter Dianna Russini Resigns from The Athletic

NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on April 14, 2026. Her resignation came less than a week after the New York Post published photos of her with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort. The Athletic, owned by The New York Times, had initiated an internal review of Russini's conduct following the publication of the photos.

Timeline of Events

• Late March 2026: Photos are taken of Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel at a resort in Sedona, Arizona. The photos were captured before the NFL league meeting that began in Phoenix on March 29.
• Early April 2026: The New York Post publishes the photos.
• Following Publication: The Athletic initiates an internal review into Russini's conduct. Sources confirmed the review to ESPN, noting it followed a report from Front Office Sports.
• April 14, 2026: Dianna Russini submits her resignation to The Athletic's executive editor, Steven Ginsberg.

Key Statements

From Dianna Russini:

In her resignation letter, Russini stated she was stepping down before her contract expired on June 30, 2026. She wrote that she had "covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication" and stood behind her work.

She said she resigned "not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen." She added that she believed media commentary had created unfounded speculation.

Regarding the photos themselves, Russini told the New York Post they "don't represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day."

From Mike Vrabel:
Vrabel also provided a statement to the New York Post, saying the photos showed "a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable."

From The Athletic:
Prior to the announcement of the internal review, The Athletic's executive editor Steven Ginsberg told the New York Post that the published photos "lacked essential context" and praised Russini's work.

Background on Individuals

• Dianna Russini: She joined The Athletic in 2023 after working at ESPN for nearly a decade. At ESPN, her roles included "SportsCenter" anchor and NFL analyst. At The Athletic, she hosted a podcast and appeared on its video platform.
• Mike Vrabel: He is preparing for his second season as head coach of the New England Patriots. Vrabel was named the Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year for the 2025 season after leading the Patriots to a 14-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance. He previously won the award in 2021 while coaching the Tennessee Titans.

Context of the Internal Review

Sources confirmed to ESPN that The Athletic's internal review was launched after the photos were published. The Athletic is owned by The New York Times. No findings from the review have been made public.