Report: Patriots Players 'Want Answers' From Mike Vrabel Amid Scandal
Mike Vrabel established a winning culture for the New England Patriots as soon as he arrived at the facility last year. Fast forward to April 2026, and there are legitimate questions surrounding the veteran coach.
Last Tuesday night, Page Six shared photos of Vrabel holding hands and hugging NFL insider Dianna Russini at a luxurious hotel in Sedona, Arizona. These images sparked rumors about them having a romantic relationship, but both parties denied any wrongdoing.
That being said, Russini resigned from her role with The Athletic this week. It's unclear what's next for her career.
"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," Russini said in a statement.
"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."
Vrabel, on the other hand, hasn't said anything since his initial statement. That could change fairly soon though.
Michael Holley of NBC Sports Boston spoke to a former player about Vrabel's questionable situation. Apparently, the locker room in New England will demand answers from its head coach.
"I talked to a former player and he said, 'The hell they won't want answers. You think Mike Vrabel can just brush this under the rug without talking to the players? Coaching don't treat us like they treat the media.' I think Vrabel will have to say something to his team," the anonymous player told Holley. "I think he's gonna have to answer to something that's been in the news for a while. For his credibility he's gonna have to say something to the team."
The Patriots are sticking by Vrabel.
Vrabel was named Coach of the Year after leading the Patriots to a 14-3 record and Super Bowl appearance. Moving on from someone of his caliber would be risky, make no mistake about it.
Luckily for Patriots fans, it doesn't sound like Vrabel's job is in jeopardy.
Eliot Wolf, the vice president of player personnel for the Patriots, told reporters on Monday that Vrabel has been very involved in their pre-draft meetings. He wasn't interested in addressing the head coach's personal situation though.
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This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 11:47 AM.