Dianna Russini’s former “Scoop City” podcast host, Chase Daniel, has broken his silence on the sports reporter’s controversial photo scandal with Mike Vrabel.
“Look, that’s something that’s unfortunate in many different ways,” the former NFL pro said during Thursday’s episode of the “Jim Rome Show,” when asked about the drama. “We haven’t really chatted about it. We haven’t done any of that, so I’m going to leave that there. That’s their business.”
“I’m sure she’ll land on her feet somewhere,” he said, “and that’s all I’ll really say about that.”
Russini and Daniel formerly co-hosted the Athletic’s “Scoop City” podcast, which was discontinued following Russini’s resignation from the outlet last month after photos showed her mingling with Vrabel at the upscale resort in Sedona.
During the same getaway, the pair were also seen having breakfast on a patio and lounging poolside.
“The photos don’t represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day,” Russini told us when reached for comment. “Like most journalists in the NFL, reporters interact with sources away from stadiums and other venues.”
Vrabel also issued a statement, saying, “These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable. This doesn’t deserve any further response.”
After being sidelined by the New York Times last month, Russini stepped down as Senior NFL Insider at the Athletic.
Vrabel, meanwhile, said he’d be ditching Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft to “seek counseling,” but has continued to serve as the New England Patriots’ head coach.
“The New England Patriots fully support Mike Vrabel’s decision to prioritize his family first, as well as his own well-being,” the team said in a statement last month.
“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 drama escalated when photos emerged of a then-pregnant Russini and Vrabel renting a private boat in Putnam County, Tennessee, back in 2021, and allegedly spending several hours together there.
Despite the recent headlines, the former ESPN reporter put on a united front with her husband for Mothers’ Day. They were photographed kissing as she held one of their sons on her hip.
