Dave Portnoy Was ‘Scared’ To Face Mike Vrabel After His Comments About The Dianna Russini Scandal

This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Dave Portnoy says he avoided a conversation with Mike Vrabel at a recent celebrity softball game because he felt uneasy about comments he made during the coach’s ongoing controversy involving former NFL reporter Dianna Russini.

Portnoy attended Drake Maye’s Celebrity Softball Game over the weekend, where Vrabel also appeared. While speaking on Barstool Sports’ YouTube channel, Portnoy admitted he chose not to approach the New England Patriots head coach despite having a relationship with him from the past.

“No, I did not. I was afraid to go up to him,” Portnoy said when asked if he spoke with Vrabel at the event.

The Barstool Sports founder explained that he felt uncertain because he had publicly discussed the situation involving Vrabel and Russini. “I do have a relationship with him in the past [but] I have no idea what he’s seen, what I’ve said,” Portnoy added.

Portnoy Says Vrabel Looked Comfortable At Event

Even though he kept his distance, Portnoy said Vrabel appeared relaxed throughout the day.

“I mean, it was like a locker room environment. He was totally normal and got a very big standing ovation,” Portnoy said.

When asked again if he had any interaction with the Patriots coach, Portnoy said he only observed him from afar.

“I saw him. He seemed like he was in good spirits. Normal interaction with all the players,” he said.

The situation involving Vrabel and Russini has remained a major topic around the NFL since photos of them together at an adults-only resort in Arizona surfaced online. More photos later appeared, leading to even more discussion.

The controversy also affected Russini’s career. She eventually left The Athletic after the outlet launched an internal investigation.

Last week, Vrabel spoke to reporters for the first time since taking time away from the team to attend family counseling. During the media session, he talked about the people who matter most to him.

“I appreciate my family, I love Jen, I love the boys [Tyler and Carter], I love my personal friends,” Vrabel said when asked about maintaining balance between football and his personal life.

Reporters also asked Vrabel about handling outside distractions. He quickly shifted the focus back to football.

“We all have to deal with things outside of here,” Vrabel said. “My focus, and obviously the excitement that I have for coaching, is what is most important right now.”

Vrabel made it clear that he intends to remain fully engaged with the Patriots as the team continues its offseason program. Meanwhile, public attention around the controversy shows little sign of fading.