New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel declined to address The Athletic’s review of his relationship with former reporter Dianna Russini when asked on Thursday before practice.
“No, I don’t have any reaction,” Vrabel told reporters. “We’re moved on and focused on Seattle and focused on the Patriots and focused on getting better this week.”
Asked if the situation is behind him, he stayed with the same answer.
“I tried to just say that I’ve moved on and I’m excited about this new opportunity here as we start this season,” he said.
The Athletic on Thursday released a nearly five-month internal review by Mike Semel. The report concluded Russini’s relationship with Vrabel “was in clear violation of The Athletic’s standards.” Regardless of whether it was romantic, Semel wrote, “it was a breach and should have been disclosed.”
The inquiry followed April photographs published by the New York Post showing Russini and Vrabel together at an Arizona resort. Russini resigned soon after. Vrabel later missed the final day of the NFL draft while beginning counseling.
Semel reviewed 903 stories, 77 videos and 204 podcast episodes. He found no clear evidence Russini used her platform to promote Vrabel or his teams, though some glowing coverage now appears “awkward or even uncomfortable.”
The Athletic did not determine the full nature of the relationship but said the appearance of a conflict undermined confidence in her impartiality.
Vrabel and the Patriots open the regular season against Seattle.
