Matthew Berry Speaks Out On The Possibility Of Hiring Dianna Russini
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Matthew Berry has opened the door to a possible future for Dianna Russini at Fantasy Life. The former ESPN analyst said he likes Russini and respects her work, but any hiring decision would come down to cost and what she could bring to his company.
Berry discussed the idea during a recent interview with OutKick. The question came as Russini remains away from her role as a senior NFL insider at The Athletic. Berry and Russini previously worked together at ESPN.
“I like Dianna a lot,” Berry said. “I will say this: I consider Dianna a friend. And I think she’s really, really talented and good on air.”
Still, Berry made one thing clear, Fantasy Life isn’t built around breaking news, so Russini’s usual reporting role might not be the most natural fit.
Berry Explains What Russini Could Bring
Berry said he would need to figure out how Russini could fit into the company before making any decision. He also said he would look closely at the cost of bringing her aboard.
“What is she going to do for the company? Because we don’t really break news,” Berry said.
It’s #LOVEHATE day! The full article will be up on Fantasy Life later but the Love/Hate episode of #FFHappyHour is live at NOON ET. @MBFantasyLife @nandodifino Watch here: https://t.co/BsPiORmFFJ
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) August 27, 2026
He explained that he asks similar questions about every potential hire. Berry wants to know how someone fits with the team, whether the company can afford them, and whether the person can generate traffic or contribute to its shows.
Berry also praised Russini’s approach during their time at ESPN. He recalled seeing her prepare for podcasts, fantasy shows, and Sunday morning programming.
“She always came prepared, energetic,” Berry said. “She was nice to all the producers. Showed up on time, prepared, gave a great performance. Whatever we needed.”
Berry did not offer much insight into reports involving Russini and New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel. Russini left The Athletic in April after photographs surfaced showing her with Vrabel at an Arizona resort. She denied rumors that the two had an extramarital relationship.
The Athletic said it would investigate the matter.
Berry added that Russini would have a different role at Fantasy Life if she joined the company. He said her work would focus on content that helps fantasy football players rather than the breaking-news work she handled at ESPN and The Athletic.
For now, Berry has not offered Russini a job. But his comments show that he remains open to considering the possibility.
