Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic amid Mike Vrabel controversy
NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on Tuesday amid mounting criticism over her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which came under fire last week after the two were photographed together at an exclusive resort in Arizona.
Russini announced her resignation in a letter to Athletic Executive Editor Steven Ginsberg, which was obtained by The Associated Press.
"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, 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," the letter read.
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"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. Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now — before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career."
Ginsberg sent a memo to The Athletic staff confirming Russini's resignation.
"I’m writing to let you know that Dianna Russini has submitted her resignation from The Athletic, effective immediately. While I can’t share the details of our investigation into Dianna’s conduct, I want to emphasize that the leadership of The Athletic has taken this matter seriously from the moment that we learned about it," Ginsberg's memo, obtained by Fox News Digital, said.
"Our coverage at The Athletic is deeply rooted in our integrity and our commitment to earning the trust of our audience. Our newsroom has thrived because of our core journalistic values, and we will always ensure they are protected.
"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. We will continue a standards review of Dianna’s work that Mike Semel is leading.
"Amid all of this, I want to sincerely thank everyone for continuing to produce the best sports report in the business. I’m looking forward to focusing on our journalism and continuing our momentum."
The New York Times began an investigation into Russini ahead of the weekend, with Ginsberg originally stating that the photos were "misleading and lack essential context."
Vrabel addressed the photos, telling Page Six, "These photos show a completely innocent interaction, and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response."
Russini told the outlet, "The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day. Like most journalists in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues."
Russini joined The Athletic in 2023 after spending roughly a decade at ESPN.
Fox News' Jackson Thompson contributed to this report.
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