Mike Vrabel has addressed the controversy surrounding photos of him with Dianna Russini, speaking publicly for the first time since the images surfaced earlier this month.

The New England Patriots head coach made the remarks during a press conference on April 21, after weeks of speculation following the publication of the photos.

Vrabel thanked reporters for their “patience,” calling the situation a “personal and private matter” involving multiple people. 

He acknowledged he could have spoken sooner but said it was important to first address his players, noting he had done so “very candidly.” 

He added that he did not want the issue to “take away from the weekend of the Draft” or distract from the team’s progress.

Detailing the impact, Vrabel said, “I've had some difficult conversations with people I care about… with my family, the organization, the coaches, the players.” 

He described those discussions as “positive and productive,” while stressing accountability. 

“In order to be successful on and off the field, you have to make good decisions. That includes me,” he said, adding the team should not be affected by off-field distractions.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the Patriots, saying he “cares deeply” about the team and is “excited” for the upcoming season, promising to approach each day with “humility and focus” and deliver “the best version of me going forward.”

When the photos first emerged, Vrabel had stated, “These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable,” adding that the matter did not warrant further response.