NEWYou can now listen to PK Press Club articles!
NFL reporter Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic on Tuesday amid growing criticism over her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, which came under fire last week after the two were photographed together at an exclusive resort in Arizona.
Russini announced his resignation in a letter to Athletic editor Steven Ginsberg, obtained by The Associated Press.
“I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every article I have published. When the Page Six article first appeared, The Athletic unequivocally supported me, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that, I am grateful. In the days since, unfortunately, commentators in various media outlets have engaged in self-perpetuating speculation that is simply not rooted in the facts,” the letter reads.
“Moreover, this media frenzy is unleashed without regard to the review process that The Athletic is attempting to carry out. It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in subjecting myself to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept. Rather than allow this to continue, I have decided to step down now – before my current contract expires on June 30. I am not doing this because I accept the narrative that was built around this episode, but because I refuse to give it more oxygen or let it define me or my career.
This is breaking news. Check back for updates.
