Story perspectives

Patriots Coach Vrabel Skips Draft Day 3 for Family Reasons

4/26/2026

Summary

Vrabel Misses Draft

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will miss Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 25, 2026 to seek counseling and be with family.
Executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf said the staff is ready and not worried about Saturday’s work.
The Patriots entered the draft with 11 picks, including seven selections in Rounds 4-7 on Day 3.
Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league will not investigate while owner Robert Kraft supported Vrabel.

Summary

Russini Hosts Poolside

Dianna Russini hosted a pool-side gathering on March 31 2026 at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel opposite Jay Glazer’s NFL coaches’ “day-drinking” party.
Sources said a few coaches accepted Dianna Russini’s invitation, though the exact attendee list was not confirmed.
Jay Glazer’s video captured 28 of 32 head coaches—including Sean Payton, Sean McVay, Nick Sirianni and Matt LaFleur—while Mike Vrabel was missing.
Dan LeBatard declined comment, citing Dianna Russini as a personal friend.
The Athletic initially issued a supportive statement despite emerging ethical-conflict allegations.

History

Historical Context

The 2011 NFL lockout began March 11, 2011 and ended July 25 after 130 days, when commissioner Roger Goodell and the NFLPA signed a CBA guaranteeing players at least 47% of league revenue. That settlement set a precedent for league leadership, a pattern echoed in 2026 when Patriots coach Mike Vrabel missed Day 3 of the draft with owner Robert Kraft and Goodell supporting his absence.

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Vrabel Misses Draft

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel will miss Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 25, 2026 to seek counseling and be with family.
Executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf said the staff is ready and not worried about Saturday’s work.
The Patriots entered the draft with 11 picks, including seven selections in Rounds 4-7 on Day 3.
Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league will not investigate while owner Robert Kraft supported Vrabel.

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