Mike Vrabel Won't Be With Patriots During Day 3 Of NFL Draft, Seek Counseling

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel

Mike Vrabel Won't Be With Patriots During Day 3 Of NFL Draft, Seek Counseling originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel won’t be with the team for Day 3 of the 2026 MLB Draft.

Ahead of the NFL Draft, Vrabel spoke with the media and revealed he’s seeking counseling, following photos being published of him appearing to embrace and hold hands with former Athletic reporter Dianna Russini at a resort in Arizona.

"As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them,” Vrabel said. “In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.

"I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result."

Vrabel said he will be in contact with the Patriots on Saturday for the final day of the draft, but has full confidence in the front office.

New England has 11 total picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, with eight of them coming on Day 3. So, Vrabel not being with the team is big, but the coach knows the front office and their draft board will lead them to drafting the right players.