New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel has been accused of a "cowardly" move amid the ongoing scandal with Dianna Russini.
Vrabel and Russini, who are both married, were spotted in photographs acquired by the New York Post's Page Six, being pretty friendly at an Arizona resort. The photos showed them by the pool, hugging, holding hands, etc. Both Vrabel and Russini denied the logical speculation regarding the photos, insisting they were there with friends.
But The Athletic is now investigating Russini. And, while Vrabel didn't violate any NFL rules by interacting with a reporter by the pool, he's facing scrutiny online.
Vrabel is reportedly not going to speak at New England's press conference this week.
Vrabel was never scheduled to speak, though fans are calling him out online, accusing him of a "cowardly" move.
NFL fans rip Vrabel for 'cowardly' move
"Wouldn't call it cowardly because you have to think about the team right now. But more strategic. You don't want to take away from the concentration of the coaches, scouts, the kids they're drafting. He can address it days after the draft when it's settled," one fan wrote.
"So what's next? Is he going to coach from the press box as well so the cameras can't focus on him during games. I had more respect for him before this," one fan added.
"Gonna be real interesting to watch ESPN try and cover this without mentioning Russini. At what point does it become misreporting if they fail to address the link. Are they really gonna go ask eachother why Vrabel might be missing it and answer with a 'no idea,'" one fan added.
"I hope the players laugh the next time he mentions accountability in a team meeting," one fan added.
What do you make of Vrabel's decision?
