Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel to Sit Out Draft Weekend, Enters Counseling Following Resort Photos

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is stepping away from the 2026 NFL Draft this weekend to pursue counseling, as he navigates one of the season's most prominent sports stories.

The draft begins tonight and continues through Saturday, with rounds 4-7 scheduled for the final day. Vrabel will not be present for Saturday's proceedings.

The 50-year-old coach and Dianna Russini, an NFL sportswriter, were photographed together at an Arizona resort. Both initially denied any romantic relationship, citing their respective marriages to other people.

Vrabel addressed the situation with media earlier this week, acknowledging difficult conversations with his family in the wake of intense media attention. Russini subsequently resigned from her position at The Athletic following the scrutiny surrounding the incident.

In a statement released Thursday, Vrabel outlined his commitment to personal work. "As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them," he said.

The coach emphasized his dedication to leading through example. "I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result."

The statement comes after a second set of photos surfaced, capturing Vrabel and Russini appearing to share a meal together alone.