Mike Vrabel is not giving up on his marriage of 27 years.
In April, the New England Patriots coach, 50, announced, via ESPN, that he was “committed to seeking counseling” shortly after photos of him cozying up to married NFL reporter Dianna Russini, 43, were published by Page Six, and a source tells Globe he’s determined to keep his word to both fans and wife Jen.
“Mike is fully committed to making sure his marriage weathers this storm,” the source tells Globe. “He’s in therapy solo and with Jen, that’s a non-negotiable. This isn’t something you can solve overnight, but he’s throwing everything he can at this.”
As Globe previously reported, more photos of Vrabel and Russini — who have denied any wrongdoing — holding hands, dancing and even kissing have surfaced since the scandal first broke.
Page Six / MEGA
“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,” the three-time Super Bowl champion announced on Wednesday, April 22, per ESPN. “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.”
“As stressful as this has been, it hasn’t shaken Mike’s focus on football, he’s a consummate professional and exceptionally good at tuning out the noise when it comes to the game,” adds Globe‘s source. “Everyone is standing behind him, the reaction from the team and the organization has beyond supportive.”
Their loved ones are hoping the former college sweethearts, who share sons Tyler, 25, and Carter, 24, can overcome the crisis. “No doubt this is a lot for a marriage to endure but people are hopeful they will make it through, there’s so much love and such a long history,” adds the source. “What they have is worth fighting for. Mike does seem confident that he and his wife will get through this, he says he will do whatever it takes to make that happen.”
“By all accounts Dianna is just as all-in on her marriage,” explains the source, noting that the former ESPN reporter and her husband even shared a kiss on Mother’s Day, which was caught on camera by Page Six. “It’s clear they’re making a big effort to put on a very united front.”
“That being said they have always had a reputation for being one of those couples that is very affectionate in public,” continues the source of the parents of two. “That’s why this whole thing has been extra shocking for anyone that knows them, no one would have predicted this.”