Journalist Dianna Russini has issued her first response amid reports of an alleged affair with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, following recent media attention and the publication of photos showing the two together at a private resort in Arizona.

A recent profile detailed Russini’s career trajectory as a prominent NFL reporter, noting her previous compensation of $800,000 per year in her role as an NFL insider for The Athletic. It also highlighted her resignation from the outlet shortly after the photos were made public by another media entity.

Russini communicated to a journalist from a major news organization via text that she has endured "intense scrutiny and personal attacks," describing the situation as having a profound impact on both her personal and professional life. She reportedly referred to herself as an ex-journalist in her remarks. However, Russini reportedly requested that her comments not be quoted, a request that the reporter declined, citing the absence of an agreement to keep the exchange off the record.

Following the publication of the story, Russini contacted The Athletic’s publisher, David Perpich, as well as senior editors from the news organization, to express objections regarding her statements being quoted without consent. The Athletic is currently conducting an internal investigation into the matter.

As of now, neither Russini nor Vrabel have issued further public statements addressing the allegations or the ensuing coverage. The situation has prompted discussions about journalistic ethics, privacy, and the professional consequences tied to the matter.