- The Los Angeles Chargers subtly referenced the viral photo scandal involving New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and former NFL reporter Dianna Russini in their 2026 schedule reveal video.
- The scandal centers on photos published in March showing Vrabel and Russini, both married, holding hands and hugging at an Arizona resort, with additional images from 2020 and 2021 later resurfacing.
- During the Chargers' Halo-themed video, a message "NYPost sent you a message" appeared when announcing the Week 12 matchup with the Patriots, and a neon sign read "Next photo dump one mile”, both alluding to the controversy, as The New York Post was the publication that initially shared the photos of Vrabel and Russini in Arizona together.
- Following the initial photos, Vrabel apologized and committed to seeking counseling, while Russini resigned from her role at The Athletic and has remained silent.
- Social media users widely reacted to the Chargers' video, finding the team's jabs at Vrabel and the Patriots amusing and praising their social media strategy.
IN FULL