Dianna Russini Finally Addresses Mike Vrabel Scandal in Resignation Letter

Instead of waiting for the seemingly inevitable to happen, Dianna Russini took her fate into her own hands.

Suspended by The Athletic as it investigated an incident involving her and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel at an adults-only hotel during the NFL's annual league meeting in Arizona weeks ago, Russini's future with the company was in jeopardy.

Though she and Vrabel issued statements shortly after allegations emerged they were having an affair denying such claims, the optics didn't look good for Russini, who's married to Kevin Goldschmidt, or Vrabel, who's married to Jen Vrabel.

According to Rob Maaddi of the Associated Press, Russini, whose contract with The Athletic reportedly expires in a few months, sent the company her resignation letter this week, where she addressed the Vrabel incident.

"I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published," Russini wrote. "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. Moreover, 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 - 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."

The Athletic was reportedly investigating the matter, searching for anyone who could corroborate Russini's initial response that she and Vrabel were interacting in a group setting away from work.

The results of that investigation aren't public yet (and they may never be). One has to imagine Russini's career as a reporter may also be in jeopardy as many believe her integrity as a trusted NFL source has been compromised beyond repair.

However, Fox Sports radio host John "Stugotz" Weiner recently stated if Russini did depart The Athletic, he would offer her a job as a permanent host on his "Stugotz and Company" radio show.

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This story was originally published April 14, 2026 at 1:00 PM.