Schefter says Russini’s reports will face standard verification

Adam Schefter said he will assess Dianna Russini’s reporting by the same standard he applies to other journalists: verifying information before reporting it. His remarks came as Russini returned to NFL coverage with a reporting program on a platform outside traditional sports media, after leaving The Athletic amid controversy involving New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel.

“I would treat her like everybody else,” Schefter said during an appearance on WEEI. He said he must verify information before reporting it and would not publish it until he knew it was true. Schefter added that he was focused on doing his own job rather than on Russini’s circumstances.

The remarks address whether Schefter would take Russini’s reports seriously after the controversy. He did not offer a personal endorsement or say he would treat her reporting differently. Instead, he described a verification process he said he applies regardless of who provides the information.

Russini has launched her own reporting program after departing The Athletic. One report said her debut featured former NFL coach Bill Parcells and that the program is associated with the offshore sportsbook BetUS. The reports describe...