On Tuesday, Dianna Russini announced her resignation from The Athletic, exactly one week after pictures of her and New England Patriots head coach spending time together at an adult-only resort were published by Page Six.
After the photos were published, Russini released a statement denying any wrongdoing (both she and Vrabel are married to other people).
“The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day,” Russini said. “Like most journalists in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues.”
However, Tuesday saw her announce that she was stepping down from her role with The Athletic.
“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published. When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful. In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts,” Russini wrote in her letter to The Athletic executive editor Steven Ginsberg.
“Moreover, this media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now — before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.”
A place to land?
It’s unclear what Russini’s plans are for the next steps in her career, but she does already have one offer on the table.
Former ESPN Radio host Jon Weiner, more commonly known as Stugotz, offered to hire Russini even before she announced her resignation.
“I’ll tell you this on the front end of any Dianna Russini discussion I’m going to have. If The Athletic gets rid of her, she’ll be sitting right next to me and Izzy doing the show,” Stugotz said. “I support my friends, I don’t bail on my friends, especially at their worst professional time in their history. I don’t do that to them, ok?”
Where do you think is in store for Russini?
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.
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