Patriots QB Drake Maye Says Coach Mike Vrabel’s Controversy Won’t Distract Team

Quarterback Drake Maye told the Associated Press that the recent off-field controversy surrounding head coach Mike Vrabel will not affect the New England Patriots’ preparation for the upcoming season. Maye emphasized his confidence in Vrabel’s leadership and said the issue “will take care of itself,” allowing the defending AFC champions to focus on work and readiness.

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The controversy began when the New York Post published photos of Vrabel and NFL reporter Dianna Russini together at a resort pool in Sedona, Arizona. The images showed the two holding hands and embracing, prompting media scrutiny and a TMZ report linking the pair to a rented boat in Tennessee in 2021. Vrabel missed the third day of the NFL draft to attend counseling and issued a statement on April 24 acknowledging “accountability for my actions” without providing further details. He described his prior behavior as falling short of his personal standards.

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• Drake Maye – Reiterated his support for Vrabel and expressed optimism about the team’s focus.

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• Mike Vrabel – Stated he was taking accountability and had “hard conversations” with family, teammates and organization members.

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• Stefon Diggs – Former Patriots wide receiver was acquitted of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges after a jury deliberated less than two hours; Maye praised Diggs as a “great teammate” and “great player.”

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Maye was the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, led the Patriots to Super Bowl 60 in his second season, and was runner-up to Matthew Stafford for the AP NFL MVP award in 2025. Diggs’ acquittal cleared a path for his return, though NFL discipline remains possible. The Patriots will host a three-day rookie minicamp beginning Friday in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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Maye summarized his view that Vrabel’s “right mindset” and “great human being” qualities will prevent the controversy from becoming a distraction. Vrabel’s own remarks focused on personal accountability and the need for introspection, noting that his previous actions did not meet his own standards. The organization has not announced any formal disciplinary measures for either Vrabel or Diggs.

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Media outlets highlighted the ethical concerns of a married coach engaging with a married reporter, questioning the impact on team culture. The lack of specific details in Vrabel’s accountability statement has drawn criticism from commentators who argue that transparency is essential for maintaining public trust.

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Sources differ on the extent of Vrabel’s involvement with Russini; while photos confirm a social interaction, no official clarification on the nature of their relationship has been provided. Additionally, the Patriots have not disclosed whether the coaching staff will implement any internal policies in response to the incident.

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• “I mean, he's our head coach. I think he's done a great job of talking to us and talking us through it. I'm just looking forward to getting back to work and getting ready.” — Drake Maye, quarterback

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• “I think that'll take care of itself.” — Drake Maye

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• “I know he’s got the right mindset, and I know he’s a great human being.” — Drake Maye

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• “Well, you know, he's always been a great teammate to me, and I know he'll do great things,” — Drake Maye, on Stefon Diggs

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• “Nothing, nothing, no problems at all,” — Drake Maye, on his shoulder injury

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The Patriots will begin rookie minicamp on Friday, followed by training camp and the regular season. Vrabel’s ability to maintain team focus amid ongoing media attention will be closely watched, while the league’s response to Diggs’ acquittal remains pending.

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