Breaking News: Read the Athletic reporter Dianna Russini’s full resignation letter in wake of Mike Vrabel photo drama….see more

Please accept this letter as my resignation from The Athletic, effective immediately.

I have come to this decision with deep sadness but with clarity about what is right for me, my family and the work. I have spent my career building.

You and I have already publicly addressed the recent attacks against me, and I have nothing to add publicly to what we have said. I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stan.

In the days that followed, unfortunately, commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts. Moreover, this media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete.

It continues to escalate, fueled by repeated leaks, and I have no interest in submitting to a public inquiry that has already caused far more damage than I am willing to accept.

Rather than allowing this to continue, I have decided to step aside now — before my current contract expires on June 30. I do so not because I accept the narrative that has been constructed around this episode, but because I refuse to lend it further oxygen or to let it define me or my career.