Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel to Miss Day 3 of NFL Draft for Counseling

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel informed ESPN on Wednesday that he will not join the team for Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for Saturday. He stated the absence is to begin seeking counseling this weekend. Vrabel mentioned committing to this step after giving it considerable thought.

The announcement comes after photographs surfaced of Vrabel with Dianna Russini, who previously worked as an NFL insider for The Athletic. Vrabel did not reference the photos directly in his statement. He explained the move as necessary to provide the best version of himself to his family, the organization, and the team.

Vrabel noted he would advise a player in a similar situation to take the same action.

“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. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend," Vrabel told ESPN. Vrabel added that leading by example is important to him and that this step will help him be a better husband, father, and coach. He expressed appreciation for support received and anticipated a stronger resolve afterward.”

Vrabel, who has two sons with his wife Jen, plans to spend the weekend with his family outside of Massachusetts. The 2026 NFL Draft is taking place this week, with Day 3 focusing on later rounds of player selections. The Patriots are participating in the draft, but further details on how Vrabel's absence will affect team operations were not provided in the statement.