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The Athleticâs star NFL reporter resigns amid Vrabel rumors
TL;DR
Dianna Russini, a prominent NFL reporter for The Athletic, has resigned amid rumors linking her to New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. She cites a media frenzy and speculation as reasons for her departure, stating she wants to avoid further damage to her career.
After weeks of speculation about whether or not she and New England Patriots head coach are indeed involved, The Athleticâs Dianna Russini has decided to resign Tuesday afternoon.
She released a statement.
âI have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published. When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that, I am grateful. In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts.
âMoreover, this media frenzy is hurtling 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 inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now â before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.â
Russini is right that, since this has come to light, it has been the talk of the sports world, and it has only gotten worse with the surfacing of old videos of her speaking about her marriage and of her interviewing Vrabel.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: The Athleticâs star NFL reporter resigns amid Vrabel rumors
Q&A
Why did Dianna Russini resign from The Athletic?
Dianna Russini resigned due to escalating media speculation about her involvement with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which she felt was damaging to her career.
What did Dianna Russini say in her resignation statement?
In her resignation statement, she expressed gratitude for The Athletic's support but criticized the media frenzy and self-feeding speculation surrounding her situation.
When does Dianna Russini's contract with The Athletic expire?
Dianna Russini's contract with The Athletic was set to expire on June 30, but she chose to resign before that date.
