Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic amid Mike Vrabel controversy

NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on Tuesday amid mounting criticism of her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which came under fire last week after the two were photographed together at an exclusive Arizona resort.

Russini announced his departure in a letter to Athletic Executive Editor Steven Ginsberg.

“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand by every single story I have ever published. When the Page Six issue first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. I am grateful for that. In the days since, unfortunately, only commentators in various media have engaged in various media facts,” the letter read.

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“Furthermore, this media frenzy is rushing forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public investigation that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allow this to continue, I have decided to step aside with my current contract now because I am not expiring the current contract now because I am not expiring in June. accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or let it define me or my career.”

Ginsberg sent a memo to The Athletic staff confirming Russini’s resignation.

“I am writing to let you know that Dianna Russini has submitted her resignation from The Athletic, effective immediately. While I cannot share the details of our investigation into Dianna’s conduct, I want to emphasize that the management of The Athletic has taken this matter seriously from the moment we became aware of it,” Ginsberg’s memo, obtained by Pakinomist Digital, said.

“Our coverage at The Athletic is deeply rooted in our integrity and our commitment to earning the trust of our audiences. Our newsroom has thrived because of our core journalistic values, and we will always ensure they are protected.

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel speaks to reporters at the NFL’s annual meetings in Phoenix on March 31, 2026. (Ross D. Franklin/AP)

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“When this situation was brought to our attention last week, there were clear concerns, but we were given a detailed explanation and it was our instinct to support and defend a colleague as we continued to review the matter. As more information emerged, new questions were raised which became part of our investigation.

“While our investigation into Dianna’s conduct was ongoing, she chose to resign. We will continue a standard review of Dianna’s work, which Mike Semel is leading.

“In the midst of all this, I want to thank everyone for continuing to produce the best sports reporting in the business. I look forward to focusing on our journalism and continuing our momentum.”

The New York Times began an investigation into Russini ahead of the weekend, with Ginsberg initially stating that the photos were “misleading and lack significant context.”

Addressing the photos, Vrabel told Page Six, “These photos show a completely innocent interaction, and any other suggestion is ridiculous. This does not deserve any further response.”

Russini told the magazine, “The photos do not represent the group of six people who hung out during the day. Like most reporters in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues.”

Dianna Russini introduces Minnesota Vikings players as they celebrate after the game against the Detroit Lions at US Bank Stadium on December 25, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

Russini joined The Athletic in 2023 after spending about a decade at ESPN.