Patriots’ Mike Vrabel to Skip Amid Dianna Russini Scandal

Mike Vrabel is starting a journey to self-improvement after a particularly rough month. 

Shortly after the New England Patriots head coach broke his silence on the fallout from the aftermath of photos of himself and NFL reporter Dianna Russini looking close on vacation going viral, he shared an update concerning his absence at the NFL draft. 

“I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them,” Vrabel said in a statement obtained by ESPN April 22. “In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend.”

Indeed, while the NFL draft’s final rounds will continue into April 25, Vrabel shared why he has opted to miss the occasion. 

“This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them,” the coach continued. “I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be.”