New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel has made the decision to skip the third and final day of the 2026 NFL Draft to seek counseling. And with that, the organization has now released a statement showing support for Vrabel, saying that they “respect the steps he is taking.”
“The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel’s decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being. Mike has been open with us about his commitment to being the best version of himself for his family, this team, and our fans, and we respect the steps he is taking to follow through on that commitment,” the statement said.
“We are confident in the leadership and communication Mike has established with our personnel staff throughout this pre-draft process. While he will not be present at the facility on Saturday, we know the draft evaluations are complete, and Eliot Wolf and his personnel staff are prepared to execute our draft as planned this weekend.”
Mike Vrabel Revealed He Will Seek Counseling Before New Photos Were Released
In the early hours of April 23, ESPN’s Mike Reiss reported that Vrabel won’t be with the team for the third day, with the coach sharing a statement with the outlet.
“As I said the other day, I promised my family, this organization and this team that I was going to give them the best version of me that I can possibly give them. In order to do so, I have committed to seeking counseling, starting this weekend,” Vrabel said Wednesday night. “This is something that I have given a lot of thought to and is something I would advise a player to do if I was counseling them.
“I have always wanted to lead by example, and I believe this is what I have to do to be the best husband, father and coach that I possibly can be. This is not an easy thing for me to admit, but it is one that I know will make me a better person. I appreciate the support that everyone has given me and promise a stronger resolve as a result.”
Then, shortly after, Page Six released photos from 2020 of Vrabel at a bar with NFL Insider Dianna Russini, where the two were “all over each other,” with an eyewitness even adding that they were “kissing.”
“They were having a glorious time. They were [giving each other] pecks, a bunch of pecks constantly,” the source added. “There was nobody in there. Nobody knew who they were. I don’t even think the bartenders did.”
Will Mike Vrabel Speak With Reporters on Day 1 Of The NFL Draft?
While Vrabel spoke with reporters on Tuesday, publicly addressing the controversy for the first time, a lot of new information has now come to light.
And before this, it was announced that either Vrabel or Executive Vice President of Player Personnel Eliot Wolf would speak following the team’s pick (or decision to trade out of the first round). At this time, it’s unclear if Vrabel will address this or if he will even come out and speak at all.
Patriots Release Statement of Support For Mike Vrabel Amid New Photos & Draft News