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Kraft Stands Behind Vrabel After Reporter Scandal

7/18/2026

Summary

Kraft Backs Vrabel

Robert Kraft backed coach Mike Vrabel on ESPN’s “First Take” on July 17, 2026, after Page Six published April 7, 2026 photos of Vrabel and reporter Dianna Russini at an Arizona resort.
The images led to Russini’s resignation on April 14, 2026 and to Vrabel guiding the Patriots to a 14-3 record and a Coach of the Year award.
Patriots start camp July 24, 2026, with Kraft saying his confidence in Vrabel is unchanged.

Summary

Brown Joins Patriots

A.J. Brown, a lifelong Patriots fan who won a Super Bowl elsewhere, is set to join New England, prompting owner Robert Kraft’s excitement and his goal of playoff appearances each year.
Kraft said his sons often remind him to temper optimism about the upcoming campaign.
He praised rookie quarterback Drake Maye as very humble and among the top young quarterbacks, expecting veteran acquisitions and young talent to develop.

Summary

Kraft Defends Vrabel

The Athletic is expected to release an internal investigation report on the Vrabel-Russini affair, possibly reviving scrutiny.
Kraft appeared on ESPN’s “First Take” with Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin and was asked about Vrabel’s offseason.
Kraft said Vrabel’s intellectual knowledge and player rapport make him a long-term coaching asset despite controversy.
The article cites a “double standard” debate and warns the issue could resurface if Russini speaks.

History

Historical Context

The Patriots’ 2007 Spygate scandal—$500,000 fined to Bill Belichick, $250,000 to the team, and a first-round draft loss—was defended by owner Robert Kraft against Commissioner Roger Goodell’s sanctions. Deflategate in 2015 added a $1 million fine and a four-game Brady suspension, and the current scrutiny of coach Mike Vrabel’s alleged affair shows Kraft again shielding staff, reinforcing a legacy of owner-driven controversy tolerance.

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Kraft Backs Vrabel

Robert Kraft backed coach Mike Vrabel on ESPN’s “First Take” on July 17, 2026, after Page Six published April 7, 2026 photos of Vrabel and reporter Dianna Russini at an Arizona resort.
The images led to Russini’s resignation on April 14, 2026 and to Vrabel guiding the Patriots to a 14-3 record and a Coach of the Year award.
Patriots start camp July 24, 2026, with Kraft saying his confidence in Vrabel is unchanged.

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