Dianna Russini's Former ESPN Coworker Blasts State Of Sports Journalism

There aren't many reporters who have offered their thoughts on the Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel situation, but ESPN's Buster Olney did make a few interesting remarks this Tuesday.

Russini, who worked for ESPN prior to joining The Athletic, was spotted holding hands with Vrabel in late March at a hotel in Arizona. Exclusive photos of their time together were obtained by Page Six.

Both Russini and Vrabel denied any rumors about them having an inappropriate relationship.

"The photos don't represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day," Russini said. "Like most journalists in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues."

During an appearance on ESPN New York this Tuesday morning, Olney addressed the current state of sports journalism without mentioning Russini by name. However, it was pretty evident that he was referring to her situation.

"I hope this whole thing opens up a larger conversation about the potential destructiveness of quid pro quo in our business, because let me tell you something: It's as bad as I've ever seen," Olney said, via Daily Mail. "I'm aware of what's going on behind the scenes. And I think that's the cost of all this, right?... "Hey, if I give you this quote-unquote scoop, then you can bend the number this way, or you can bend the truth this way."

Things are getting worse for Dianna Russini.

Russini will be sidelined indefinitely since The Athletic is investigating her explanation about her controversial encounter with Vrabel.

"New details from the Page Six report and information from the investigation raised additional concerns that are now being reviewed further," the report states. "The investigation is ongoing. Her coverage is being reviewed. That process is expected to take time."

According to John Ourand of Puck, there's growing tension within The Athletic due to Russini's situation. The New York Times, which owns The Athletic, has employees who believe The Athletic is operating "under looser standards and rules."

If Russini resumes her job at The Athletic once this investigation is over, that could only lead to more turmoil inside the New York Times' headquarters.

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