Dianna Russini, who covered the NFL for The Athletic, has resigned following the publication of photos showing her at an Arizona resort with the head coach of the New England Patriots, Mike Vrabel.
The New York Post publication of the photos, which showed Russini and Vrabel holding hands and hugging, promoted an investigation at The Athletic.
In a letter to The Athletic’s executive editor, Steven Ginsberg, Russini wrote, “When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful.”
“In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts. Moreover, this media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept.”
Per The Athletic, in a note to staffers, Ginsberg wrote, “When this situation was brought to our attention last week, there were clear concerns, but we received a detailed explanation and it was our instinct to support and defend a colleague while we continued to review the matter.”
“As additional information emerged, new questions were raised that became part of our investigation. While our investigation into Dianna’s conduct was ongoing, she chose to resign.” A review of her work will continue, The Athletic reported.
Russini and Vrabel told the Post that the photos did not show that they were at the resort with friends.
Russini joined The Athletic in 2023, having previously worked at ESPN, including as a SportsCenter anchor.
