The connection between NFL coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL reporter Dianna Russini continues to spark curiosity following reports that they rented a private boat in 2021.
Documents acquired by TMZ on Wednesday, May 6, reveal that both individuals signed a company waiver before embarking on a lake outing in Putnam County, Tennessee, at that time.
Additionally, TMZ obtained a photograph of Vrabel posing with staff during his purported visit in June 2021.
US Weekly has reached out to representatives for Vrabel and Russini for their comments.
During the boat trip in question, Russini was pregnant and expecting her first child with her husband, Kevin Goldschmidt. She gave birth later that summer to the first of their two children.
Meanwhile, Mike has been married to his wife, Jen Vravel, since 1999, and they also have two children. Both Mike and Russini remain married to their partners despite speculation about their relationship being more than platonic.
In April, Mike and Russini first attracted media attention when Page Six released photos of them holding hands and sitting together in a hot tub at an Arizona resort.
“These photos depict a completely innocent interaction, and any suggestion otherwise is laughable,” Mike told the Post. “This doesn’t warrant any further response.”
In a separate statement, Russini commented, “The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day. Like most NFL journalists, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues.”
Since then, additional photos of Mike and Russini have been published by multiple outlets.
On April 14, Russini resigned from her position at The Athletic, while denying that her relationship with the football coach was ever more than professional.
“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published,” Russini stated on social media at that time. “When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressing confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that, I am grateful. Unfortunately, in the days that followed, commentators in various media engaged in speculation that is simply detached from the facts.”
As for Mike, he returned to coaching the New England Patriots after seeking counseling.
“I promised my family, this organization, and this team that I would give them the best version of myself that I can possibly offer. To achieve this, I have committed to seeking counseling, beginning this weekend,” Mike said in a statement to ESPN on April 22. “This is something I have thought a lot about, and it is something I would advise a player to do if I were counseling them.”
The statement continued, “I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I need to do to be the best husband, father, and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”
