An investigation conducted by The Athletic concluded that former NFL reporter Dianna Russini breached company standards due to her relationship with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel. This resulted in her resignation in April.

The report did not determine the exact nature of Russini’s relationship with Vrabel. However, Vrabel acknowledged responsibility for his actions without commenting on released photos showing him with Russini at a resort in Arizona. He took a temporary leave from the team during the NFL draft to attend counseling but returned soon after.

The report stated, “We neither completed an investigation nor reached any conclusion about the nature of the full relationship between Vrabel and Russini, but the totality of the public photographs are enough to conclude a violation of company policy.”

Steven Ginsberg, executive editor at The Athletic, addressed the report in a message to staff on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of maintaining credibility and audience trust. Mike Semel, the editorial director for standards and quality, reviewed Russini’s work, analyzing 903 stories, 204 podcast episodes, and 77 videos.

Ginsberg informed staff that most of Russini’s stories were unrelated to Vrabel and those mentioning him did not raise significant concerns. Editor’s notes were added to four pieces – one written story and three videos – that failed to meet the standards.

Photos of Vrabel and Russini in Sedona, Arizona, were taken before the annual NFL meetings in Phoenix. Both individuals are married, and the NFL did not pursue an investigation into Vrabel’s conduct.

Mike Semel wrote, “Russini’s relationship with Vrabel was in clear violation of The Athletic’s standards. Regardless of whether the relationship was romantic, it was a breach and should have been disclosed.”

Vrabel led the Patriots to the Super Bowl in February, where they were defeated by Seattle. He was named AP NFL Coach of the Year during his first season in New England.

Dianna Russini reiterated her professional commitment and dedication in her resignation letter, expressing gratitude for the support from The Athletic. She stated that her departure was not an acceptance of the narrative surrounding the situation but a decision to avoid further fueling speculation.