League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Kevin Wildes downplays Vrabel-Russini affair as hand-holding scandal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 11:00 PM

Last updated Aug 13, 2026

Kevin Wildes downplays Vrabel-Russini affair as hand-holding scandal

Summary

On FS1’s First Things First, Kevin Wildes referred to the offseason scandal involving New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and former insider Dianna Russini as a “hand-holding scandal.” The controversy arose from Vrabel's initial denial of the affair, alongside photos showing them together dating back to 2020. Wildes’ comments reflect a desire from Patriots fans to move past the incident after a recent Super Bowl appearance. While Vrabel did not face punishment, Russini stepped down from her role at The Athletic. Discussions continue about the fallout and implications for the Patriots moving forward.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Kevin Wildes calls Vrabel-Russini affair a 'hand-holding scandal'.
•Vrabel initially denied wrongdoing before further photos emerged.
•Russini lost her job amid the scandal, while Vrabel remains with the team.
•Patriots fans are eager to focus on the upcoming season post-scandal.

Latest Updates

11:00 PMYahoo Sports — FS1’s Kevin Wildes dismisses Vrabel-Russini affair as ‘hand-holding scandal’

What they're saying

"
Everyone is ready to turn the page on the NFL offseason scandal that cost longtime insider Dianna Russini her job and became a massive distraction for New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel. That may be most true for Patriots fans, who are ready to rally around the team after yet another Super Bowl appearance, the…
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New England Patriots NFL Football