NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigns from The Athletic after photos published of her with Mike Vrabel

Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic following the publication of photos showing her with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at an Arizona resort in late March. The New York Post published the photos, which reportedly preceded NFL owners meetings in Phoenix. The Athletic, owned by The New York Times, launched an internal investigation after the photos surfaced. Russini stated that while The Athletic initially supported her, the ensuing media speculation and leaks prompted her resignation before her contract's June 30 expiration. She emphasized her professional dedication throughout her career and her unwillingness to participate in a public inquiry that she felt was damaging. Russini joined The Athletic in 2023 after working at ESPN for nearly a decade.