When the New England Patriots made headlines during the NFL Draft, it wasn't just about their player picks—it was about who wasn't there. Head coach Mike Vrabel missed Day 3 of the draft to prioritize his family and seek counseling amid a very public off-field scandal involving former NFL reporter Dianna Russini. But as the team gears up for the 2026 season, quarterback Drake Maye says the locker room is locked in and ready to move forward.

"No, I don't think it's a distraction," Maye told The Associated Press. "He's our head coach. He's done a great job of talking us through it. I'm just looking forward to getting back to work."

While Maye's confidence is reassuring, the story has dominated headlines for weeks. It all started when Page Six published photos of Vrabel and Russini holding hands and hugging at a Sedona, Arizona hotel. More images followed, showing the pair together as far back as March 2020. TMZ later reported they rented a private boat in June 2021—while Russini was pregnant with her first child.

Both Vrabel and Russini initially denied a romantic relationship, but the Patriots coach has since taken a more accountable stance. Ahead of the draft, he said, "I take accountability for my actions and the actions that caused a distraction to the people I care most about—my family, this football team, the organization, and our fans." Russini resigned from her role at The Athletic.

Vrabel has vowed to be the best version of himself for his family and the Patriots. And Maye, for one, is all in. "I know he's got the right mindset. I know he's a great human being. I love playing for him."

The NFL has decided not to pursue a personal conduct investigation into Vrabel, and the Patriots have publicly supported his decision to seek counseling and take a brief leave. Now, it's all about what happens on the field—and Maye is confident that's where the focus belongs.