Mike Vrabel has informed media members and those close to him that he will enter counseling in the wake of a scandal also involving former employee of The Athletic, Dianna Russini.
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He will just wait a few days due to another pressing event on his calender — the 2026 NFL Draft. He will be present with the New England Patriots, the team he coaches, during Rounds 1, 2, and 3 on Thursday and Friday night.
He will just miss the final four rounds of the Draft on Saturday as he spends time with his family and begins the process of counseling. He has a wife, Jen, and two sons.
ESPN notes that Vrabel will still be in contact with the Patriots. He will just not be in the War Room.
"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," Vrabel said on Wednesday night, per 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. I have 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.
"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 that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result."
The Patriots head coach first met with media members on Tuesday and provided public comments about the photos showing him and Russini appearing to hold hands and embrace at a resort in Arizona. Other photos showed them together in a hot tub, as well as next to a pool.
Vrabel said that he had some "difficult conversations" with the people he cares about, which included his family, the organization, the coaches, and players. He called those conversations "positive" and "productive."
Page Six has since published more photos of Vrabel and Russini, albeit from six years ago.
These photos appear to show Vrabel — then the head coach of the Titans — and the longtime NFL reporter at a secluded bar in New York City on March 11, 2020. They sit close to each other at the bar in multiple photos. One, in particular, makes it appear that they share a kiss.
