Patriots coach Vrabel returns to media after draft absence

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the media Wednesday for the first time since a personal controversy prompted him to miss part of the NFL Draft last month, emphasizing his focus on the present as the team began organized team activities.

The press conference at the Patriots’ facility in Foxborough marked Vrabel’s most extensive comments since late April, when photographs surfaced showing him with former NFL reporter Dianna Russini at a resort in Sedona, Arizona. Additional photos from prior years were later published. In response, Vrabel missed the third day of the 2026 draft to attend counseling with his family.

When asked Wednesday about the balance between family and football, Vrabel said the process has been “really good.” He expressed appreciation for his family, stating, “I love my wife Jen. I love the boys. I love my personal friends.”

Reporters also questioned whether he anticipated missing any more team activities during the offseason program. “I can only tell you I’m going to be there today,” Vrabel responded. “I can’t tell you anything other than I’m going to be out there in full force. I mean that. Who knows what’s going to come up? Anything can...