Dianna Russini Resigns Amid Controversy Over Relationship With Coach Mike Vrabel and Ethics Debate

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:37:00 +0200

Fox News' report by Howard Kurtz covers the controversy surrounding New York Times NFL reporter Dianna Russini and New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel after leaked photos showed the two in a hot tub and sharing an embrace at a hotel in Sedona, Arizona. Both are married, and their public interactions led to widespread scrutiny due to Russini’s professional role covering the Patriots. Following the photo leak, The Athletic, which employs Russini as part of The New York Times' sports division, initially defended her professionalism but later launched an internal investigation. Russini ultimately resigned, citing the damaging media frenzy and refusing to continue under such public scrutiny. Vrabel, by contrast, denied any wrongdoing, dismissed the photos as innocent, and has faced no professional repercussions. This disparity prompted discussions across media outlets about gender-based double standards in journalism and sports, with commentators noting female reporters often face harshe