New Photo Of Mike Vrabel & Dianna Russini Kissing At Bar Surfaces

A new photo of New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and former The Athletic reporter Dianna Russini has been released.

The photo shows Vrabel and Russini kissing in a New York bar. Although it’s not confirmed when the photo was taken, The New York Post estimated it was taken six years ago.

If The New York Post is correct about the timeline, this photo was taken approximately six months before Russini was engaged. 

These new photos add a new layer to a previous scandal. Page Six released seven photos of Vrabel and Russini at the Ambiente Sedona hotel in Arizona on April 7. The leaked photos showed them hugging and holding hands. Vrabel was interviewed by the New York Post later that day and was asked about the photos.

“These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable,” Vrabel said. “This doesn’t deserve any further response.”

Russini originally defended her actions, saying she was with a group of six people and that it’s common for sports journalists and team members to spend time together during the offseason.

Later in the week, The New York Times, owner of The Athletic, said it would launch an investigation into the incident. Russini resigned from The Athletic a few days later.

“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,” Russini said.

The Athletic is still investigating the photos despite Russini’s leaving. 

So far, the Patriots have shown full support for Vrabel. However, this may change with the new photos being released. Vrabel was asked about the photos on NFL Draft day, and was much more open about the matter.

 “I take accountability for my actions and the actions that caused a distraction to the people that I care most about,” Vrabel said.