Investigation at The Athletic Reveals Standards Violation by Dianna Russini

An investigation by The Athletic revealed that former NFL reporter Dianna Russini violated the company’s standards due to her relationship with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, which led to her resignation in April. Although the exact nature of Russini’s relationship with Vrabel was not concluded, Vrabel took responsibility for his actions, choosing not to comment on photos of him and Russini at a resort in Arizona. Vrabel temporarily left the team during the NFL draft for counseling, later returning to his duties.

The Athletic’s report stated, “We neither completed an investigation nor reached any conclusion about the full nature of the relationship between Vrabel and Russini, but the totality of the public photographs are enough to conclude a violation of company policy.” Steven Ginsberg, the executive editor at The Athletic, emphasized the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity and audience trust, stating, “Nothing is more important than our credibility.”

Mike Semel, the editorial director for standards and quality at The Athletic, conducted a review of Russini’s work, including 903 stories, 204 podcast episodes, and 77 videos. According to Ginsberg, the review showed most of Russini’s stories were unrelated to Vrabel and did not raise concerns. However, editor’s notes were added to four pieces that did not meet the outlet’s standards.

Photos of Vrabel and Russini were reportedly taken in Sedona, Arizona, prior to the NFL meetings that began in Phoenix on March 29. Both Vrabel and Russini are married, though the NFL chose not to investigate Vrabel’s actions. Semel remarked, “Russini’s relationship with Vrabel was in clear violation of The Athletic’s standards… it was a breach and should have been disclosed.”

Coach Vrabel led the Patriots to the Super Bowl in February, where they were defeated by Seattle. He was named AP NFL Coach of the Year during his first season in New England, finishing significantly ahead of Jacksonville’s Liam Coen.

In her resignation letter, Russini stated, “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, expressing confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that, I am grateful.” She chose to step away, not because she accepted the narrative built around the incident, but to prevent it from defining her or her career.