Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic amid Mike Vrabel controversy

By
Paulina Dedaj Fox News
Published
April 14, 2026 3:53pm EDT Facebook
Twitter Threads
Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Fox News Flash top sports headlines for April 14 Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here
Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on Tuesday amid mounting criticism over her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which came under fire last week after the two were photographed together at an exclusive resort in Arizona.

Russini announced her resignation in a letter to Athletic Executive Editor Steven Ginsberg, which was obtained by The Associated Press.

"I 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
In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts," the letter read.

"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." This is a breaking news story
Check back for updates.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter
Paulina Dedaj is a Sports Editor for Fox News Digital
Fox News First Get all the stories you need-to-know from the most powerful name in news delivered first thing every morning to your inbox
Arrives
Weekdays By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and
agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News
You understand that you can
opt-out at any time
Subscribed
You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!