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Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Addresses Russini Photo Controversy, Pledges to Limit Distractions

No league probe is planned, leaving The Athletic’s review to sort out journalism questions.

Overview

  • Vrabel, speaking Tuesday at Gillette Stadium, said he had “difficult conversations” with his family, staff and players and promised to keep the focus on football heading into the NFL Draft.
  • He said he waited to comment until he met with the team Monday and kept those discussions private to avoid adding to the distraction.
  • The NFL is not opening a personal-conduct review of the coach, according to a league spokesperson who said such cases must involve conduct that harms the league’s integrity.
  • Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on April 14 as the outlet’s internal standards review continued into potential conflicts raised by the photos after an initial public defense.
  • Tabloid reports claim Patriots owner Robert Kraft tried to stop publication of the photos, a claim not independently verified, highlighting how paid tips, leaks and crisis PR can drive what the public sees.