New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel will miss the final day of the 2026 NFL Draft to begin counseling with his family, following photos with journalist Dianna Russini that sparked an off-field controversy, as detailed in prior coverage of the Vrabel-Russini Sedona Photos Controversy series. The team fully supports his decision amid his accountability for the distraction.
In a press conference at the Patriots' Foxborough facility on April 23, hours before the 2026 NFL Draft began in Pittsburgh, the 50-year-old Coach of the Year addressed the media. Coming off a 14-3 season with an AFC East title, conference championship, and Super Bowl LX appearance, Vrabel said his actions fell short of his standards, impacting his family, team, and fans.
He plans to start counseling over the weekend outside Massachusetts, prioritizing family well-being. Vrabel expressed confidence in executive VP Eliot Wolf and staff, including VP Ryan Cowden, to manage Day 3 picks, such as the No. 31 overall selection. The Patriots hold 11 total picks through April 25.
This follows photos published by Page Six showing Vrabel and Russini— who resigned from The Athletic on April 14—holding hands and hugging at a Sedona luxury resort, plus earlier images from a 2020 New York City bar (see prior series articles for full context and denials).
The Patriots stated: 'We fully support Mike Vrabel's decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being,' noting his openness and pre-draft preparations. Vrabel will remain in contact but declined to specify if his absence extends beyond Day 3, emphasizing family needs.
