Dianna Russini has resigned from The Athletic. The resignation comes amid an investigation that will nevertheless continue in the form of a “standards review”. The investigation followed the publication of photos of Russini and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel.
Vrabel’s Response and the Fallout
Vrabel made one comment about the photos, telling the Post: “These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response.”
The Athletic’s launch of an investigation suggests it believed “any suggestion otherwise” was not “laughable.” The organisation applies a high bar to its reporters to “avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest.”
Vrabel has emerged from the situation unscathed for now. There is no suggestion that the league or the Patriots are inclined to explore whether the situation potentially implicates less obvious and more nuanced standards that might apply to Vrabel.
Vrabel Faces Potential Locker Room Scrutiny
Vrabel may soon face questions about the situation. Russini’s resignation opens the door for questions regarding his reaction to the outcome as to her.
There’s a good chance that reporters from non-sports outlets will be present at upcoming press conferences. They may be prepared to pepper Vrabel with questions.
Vrabel will need to address the matter with players. He must maintain his own credibility when it comes to insisting that players not create unnecessary distractions for the team.
Lingering Potential for Distraction
Although there’s no reason to think anything will happen as to Vrabel’s employment, it’s something that has the potential to linger unless and until Vrabel finds a way to end it.
He can easily end it externally, because he can simply say to reporters, “I’ve said all I’m ever going to say about it.” He’ll need to say something more to the people he will expect to not create distractions moving forward, if only to get them to understand why they should continue to heed that message.