New England Patriots star cornerback Christian Gonzalez is the latest to speak out regarding head coach Mike Vrabel amid the controversial photos shared that showed him with former NFL insider Dianna Russini.
“We’re not gonna speak on what we talked about inside the building,” Gonzalez told reporters. ”But I mean, that’s my coach. That’s who I go out there and play for. He’s proven to what he can do as a coach. That’s my guy, and I ride behind Vrabes any time of the day.”
The scandal involving Vrabel and Russini began with photos shared by Page Six showing the two together at a resort in Arizona. While they both gave a statement to the outlet, denying the allegations, Russini ultimately resigned from her position at the Athletic.
Then, more photos from 2020 were published, showing the two kissing at a bar in New York City. From there, Vrabel issued another statement, speaking with reporters where he took “accountability for my actions and the actions that caused a distraction to the people that I care most about: My family, this football team, the organization and our fans.”
Drake Maye Also Shows Support For Mike Vrabel
GettyNew England Patriots QB Drake Maye, head coach Mike Vrabel
Gonzalez is just one of many players who have fielded questions regarding Vrabel, with quarterback Drake Maye also being asked about it as well.
“We’re here for coach,” Maye told 7News. “We love coach. What he does for us, what he’s done for us this past year. You can’t speak into words.”
Newcomer Alijah Vera-Tucker also spoke out, with the guard expressing his excitement to play for the coach.
“I think just being open and honest,” he said. “I think that’s a key in any relationship, and I give credit to him. He’s very honest with us, very open as well. So I don’t think a lot of people would be able to do that. So, you know, I respect that a lot. And like I said, I’m excited to be coached by Vrabel. I think he’s a phenomenal coach in this league.”
Captains Hunter Henry and Robert Spillane shared similar messages.
“I thought he did a great job,” Henry said regarding Vrabel’s message. “It’s been the same Vrabes bringing a lot of energy into the room. So, I mean, obviously, he addressed it. That’s kind of what I’ll say about it.”
“I love coach, and I’m going to be here to support him, as he would be there to support me through anything,” Spillane added. “Coach coaches football. And he keeps the main thing the main thing. So, I know he’s dealing with personal issues, but when we’re in the building, we speak football.”
Mike Vrabel Missed The Third Day Of The 2026 NFL Draft
GettyMike Vrabel addresses reporters.
While Vrabel was in attendance for the first two days of the 2026 NFL Draft, which took place on Thursday and Friday, he was absent on Saturday.
The reason for his absence: To be away for counseling with his family amid the fallout from the controversy.
In Vrabel’s absence, the Patriots made six selections, as well as signing many rookie undrafted free agents. The draft picks included cornerback Karon Prunty, tackle Dametrious Crownover, linebacker Namdi Obiazor, quarterback Behren Morton, running back Jam Miller, and edge rusher Quintayvious Hutchins.
Patriots’ Christian Gonzalez Breaks Silence on Mike Vrabel Scandal