Athletic editor Ginsberg admits Russini communication error
Steven Ginsberg, executive editor of The Athletic, acknowledged a mistake in communicating with staff about the Dianna Russini controversy during a company meeting. He spoke for 10 minutes on the need for better internal handling and noted an ongoing investigation by editorial director Mike Semel would be lengthy. Ginsberg fielded no questions but offered availability to staff.
Russini, an NFL reporter who joined The Athletic in 2023 after nearly a decade at ESPN, resigned earlier this month amid criticism over her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. Photos published by Page Six showed the pair hugging and holding hands at a private resort in Sedona, Arizona. Initially, Ginsberg called the images misleading and lacking context; Vrabel described the interaction as innocent, and Russini noted journalists often meet sources outside stadiums.
Additional 2020 photos obtained by the New York Post depicted Russini and Vrabel kissing at a New York City bar in the early hours of March 11. In her resignation statement to Ginsberg, Russini defended her journalism, expressed gratitude for initial support, and cited media speculation and leaks as reasons to step aside before her June 30 contract end. Ginsberg's staff memo confirmed the resignation, stressed the matter's seriousness, and reaffirmed commitment to journalistic integrity.
Vrabel returned to Patriots duties after mandated counseling on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft. The team expressed full support beforehand, despite ongoing draft rounds. Semel's investigation into Russini's conduct continues.
