Dianna Russini, the NFL reporter who resigned from The Athletic seven months ago, is preparing to return to work with a new venture. According to an industry source familiar with the deal, Russini will headline her own show on a digital platform launching next week. The source described the project as very exciting for the journalist, noting that it has been in development for some time and that she is eager to resume her career.
The insider emphasized that Russini has received significant support from colleagues within the sports industry and the NFL, stating that she has been missed since her departure. This announcement follows reports from NBC Sports indicating that the journalist had already begun informing contacts within the league of her intention to return next week. Prior to this confirmation, former ESPN colleague Jon "Stugotz" Wiener publicly offered Russini a position on his Fox Sports radio program, expressing his commitment to supporting friends during difficult professional times.
Russini, 43, previously worked at ESPN from 2015 to 2023 before joining The Athletic as a Senior NFL Insider. Her tenure at the publication ended abruptly after Page Six published photographs on April 7 showing her with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel at the Ambiente resort in Sedona, Arizona. The images, taken on March 28, depicted the pair having breakfast, spending time by the pool and hot tub, and sharing intimate moments such as holding hands and hugging.
At the time of the scandal, both Russini and Vrabel insisted their interaction was completely innocent and that they were at the resort with friends. In a press conference at Gillette Stadium following the release of the photos, Vrabel promised to provide his best version for his family, organization, and fans. He later revealed on April 22 that he was seeking counseling and would not attend Day 3 of the NFL Draft.
Sources: Page Six.