NFL reporter Dianna Russini has resigned from *The Athletic* after being photographed holding hands with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, both of whom are married. They issued statements denying any wrongdoing following the release of the images taken at a luxury resort in Arizona.
The Athletic reporter Dianni Russini has resigned from her role as NFL reporter (Getty)
NFL reporter Dianni Russini has resigned from her role at The Athletic after photos emerged last week of her holding hands and hugging New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at a luxury resort in Arizona.
Russini, 43, and Vrabel, 50 — who are both married — shared statements denying any wrongdoing hours after the images were published by Page Six. The photos were reportedly taken at the Ambiente hotel in Sedona on March 28.
On Saturday, The New York Times, which acquired The Athletic as its sports outlet in 2022, confirmed that the nature of Russini’s relationship with Vrabel and her coverage were being reviewed.
Now, Russini has formally resigned from her post as NFL reporter. In a statement to The Athletic executive editor Steven Ginsberg, obtained by The Associated Press, Russini maintained that she covered the NFL “with professionalism and dedication.”
“I stand behind every story I have ever published,” she continued.
Russini wrote that when the photos were first published, The Athletic “supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful.”
More to follow
Dianna Russini resigned after photos surfaced showing her holding hands with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, prompting scrutiny over their relationship.
Both Russini and Vrabel issued statements denying any wrongdoing after the photos were published.
The photos were taken at the Ambiente hotel in Sedona, Arizona, on March 28.
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