New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will miss the third day of the NFL Draft on Saturday to undergo counseling amid a scandal involving photos of him with former reporter Dianna Russini. The team confirmed Vrabel's absence, stating he will focus on counseling starting this weekend. Vrabel, who led the Patriots to a Super Bowl run, addressed the media on Tuesday, calling the situation a "personal and private matter" and acknowledging difficult conversations with his family, the organization, and players. He emphasized his commitment to being the best husband, father, and coach possible.
Photos and Timeline
Photos obtained by the New York Post show Vrabel and Russini kissing at a New York City bar in 2020, six years before recent images of them holding hands at an Arizona resort surfaced. Russini, who resigned from The Athletic, was married six months after the 2020 photos were taken. Vrabel was married to his wife, Jen, in 1999, and they have two sons.
Vrabel's Response
Vrabel initially dismissed the photos as "laughable" but later acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. He stated that counseling is a step he would advise a player to take, emphasizing his role as a leader. The Patriots have not indicated any threat to Vrabel's job security.
Draft Implications
Vrabel's absence on Saturday will leave the draft process in the hands of executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and vice president Ryan Cowden. The Patriots have eight picks in rounds 4 through 7, including two in the fourth round.
Public and Organizational Reactions
Vrabel's statement was met with support from the Patriots organization, which verified his commitment to counseling. The coach's decision to step away reflects a broader trend in professional sports where mental health and personal accountability are increasingly prioritized. The scandal has sparked discussions about ethics in sports journalism and coaching relationships.