New England Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel announced he was seeking counseling to help him become “a better person” on April 23, 2026, amid the rumors about him and sports journalist Dianna Russini. Within hours, photos of the duo — both of whom are married — from six years ago surfaced online. As Vrabel’s credibility as a coach came into question among fans, many started wondering if he would be fired by the Patriots organization.
“As I said the other day, 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,” Mike announced that day, according to ESPN. “In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend. 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.”
Mike went on to note that he’s “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.”
NFL COACH STEPS AWAY FROM TEAM TO SEEK COUNSELING: ‘The View’ co-hosts weigh in on New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel taking indefinite leave from football after photos of him emerged with sports reporter Dianna Russini. pic.twitter.com/yGlSLDxfyo
— The View (@TheView) April 23, 2026
“This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person,” the coach added. “I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”
Weeks prior, Vrabel and Russini sparked affair rumors when they were seen in a separate set of pictures at a luxury hotel in Arizona.
Here’s what we know so far about Vrabel’s future with the Patriots.
