Dianna Russini Expected to Return to NFL Media After Investigation

Dianna Russlin, 43, is weighing offers from several NFL-related media outlets and intends to discuss the investigation into her past relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel before taking a new position. A source familiar with the situation said she hopes to speak on the matter and move past it, though a debut by the start of Week 1 is unlikely.

The source added that Russlin declined numerous interview requests from networks, podcasts and other programs, preferring to address the issue on her own terms. According to the same source, most NFL owners, coaches, staff and players have expressed support for her return.

The investigation began after photos published in early April showed Russlin and Vrabel together at a resort in Arizona and later at a New York City bar. The Athletic’s internal review concluded that the relationship violated its standards, stating that it should have been disclosed regardless of its nature. Mike Semel, the outlet’s editorial director for standards and quality, said the review did not find evidence that Russlin used her platform to promote Vrabel or his teams, though some of her past coverage of him was described as “glowingly” in hindsight.

Vrabel, who sought counseling with his wife after the investigation, said he has “moved on” and offered no reaction to the findings. Russlin issued a brief statement after the report, saying she stands by all of her reporting throughout her career. Attempts to reach Russlin and her agent for comment were not answered.