The Athletic has sidelined prominent NFL reporter Dianna Russini while conducting an internal investigation into photographs showing her with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort, sources confirmed.
Initially, The Athletic—owned by The New York Times—defended Russini, calling the images "misleading" and lacking "essential context." However, the outlet has now reversed course, launching a more thorough review and temporarily removing Russini from her reporting duties.
A source described the situation: "[Dianna's] coverage is being reviewed. That process is expected to take time. She will not be reporting in the interim."
The controversy began when Page Six published photos of Vrabel and Russini at a boutique resort in late March, sparking questions about their relationship. Both are married with children.
Russini and Vrabel quickly denied any impropriety. Russini stated, “The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day. Like most journalists in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues.”
Vrabel was more forceful, saying, “These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response.”
Despite their denials, the story gained traction, and The Athletic’s initial defense of Russini may have intensified scrutiny. Page Six first reported that Russini would be sidelined during the investigation.
The New York Times and The Athletic declined to comment when contacted.