New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged Thursday that he has not lived up to his own standards following a scandal involving former The Athletic journalist Dianna Russini.
Speaking at a press conference held before the NFL Draft, Vrabel avoided addressing specific details of the relationship but admitted that his "previous actions don't meet the standard that I hold myself to."
"I understand that I've become a distraction to the team, and that's something I'm working through," Vrabel said. "My family and my commitment to this organization remain my top priorities."
Vrabel and Russini were recently linked in reports that surfaced explicit photos and messages from 2020. The Patriots coach did not directly comment on those allegations but emphasized that he has had "difficult conversations" with those closest to him.
The NFL Draft is set to begin Thursday evening, and Vrabel's remarks came as the Patriots prepare to make their first-round selection. The team has not issued any formal statement regarding the scandal.