Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the New England Patriots, is facing criticism from fans after he opted out of a scheduled media availability amid the Dianna Russini photo leak controversy. The situation arose after PageSix published photos showing Russini, an NFL reporter for The Athletic, and Vrabel together at a hotel in Arizona, prompting an internal investigation into their relationship. The Athletic is reviewing the nature of their interactions, and Russini has been temporarily removed from reporting duties. Both Vrabel and Russini have denied any inappropriate conduct, with Vrabel describing the photos as depicting 'a completely innocent interaction.' The Athletic's executive editor, Steven Ginsberg, defended Russini, stating that the photos lack context and that she is a respected journalist. Fans have expressed mixed reactions to Vrabel's decision to avoid the media, with some labeling it as strategic to maintain focus on the team, while others view it as evasive. This incident adds to the scrutiny surrounding both individuals, who are married with children.