Patriots reportedly make stance clear on firing Mike Vrabel after Dianna Russini controversy

Patriots reportedly make stance clear on firing Mike Vrabel after Dianna Russini controversy originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Mike Vrabel’s first year with the New England Patriots was a major success.

The 50-year-old head coach took over for Jerod Mayo in 2025 following a disastrous 4-13 campaign and immediately elevated the organization to new heights. The Patriots finished the year with a 14-3 record, earned the No. 2 seed in the AFC, and won three consecutive playoff games to reach the Super Bowl.

However, Vrabel recently landed in hot water for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with former Athletic reporter Dianna Russini. With Vrabel’s off-the-field shenanigans serving as a noticeable distraction this offseason, many believe the Patriots may consider moving on from the veteran coach before the start of the 2026-27 season.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Patriots have made their stance clear on firing Vrabel.

"I would say at this point, it's definitely not in their plans to move on from Mike Vrabel," Breer said on 98.5 The Sports Hub on Friday. “I think if you look at the actions of Kraft Sports, I think it has been a month now since the photos came out.”

“Almost everything has been done in an effort to protect his employment and to protect his team's image. If it's just continued drips and drabs that kind of continue to fill in the blanks of what we already know, then I think the Patriots just ride it out."