Patriots Players Reaffirm Focus on Football Amid Mike Vrabel Offseason Absence

New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry and linebacker Robert Spillane faced questions about head coach Mike Vrabel’s messaging to the team during press conferences held at the team’s facility on Tuesday. The inquiries followed reports of Vrabel’s interactions with reporter Dianna Russini in non-work settings over recent weeks.

Vrabel was absent from the team during the final day of the NFL Draft as he sought counseling and spent time with his family. Despite these developments, both Henry and Spillane reassured that the situation has not disrupted the team’s focus during the offseason program.

Players Emphasize Football Focus

"Coach coaches football and he keeps the main thing, the main thing," Spillane said. "I know he's dealing with personal issues, but when we're in the building, we speak football."

Henry added, "I thought he did a great job addressing players about the situation and has been the same Vrabes when the team has been in the facility."

Henry also stressed the team’s collective focus on the upcoming 2026 season, stating, "Everybody’s focused on the task at hand as they prepare for the 2026 season."

Preparation for the 2026 Season

Henry elaborated on the team’s priorities, saying, "Obviously I know you guys want to hear about everything that’s going on. To be honest with you, I'm focused on what we got going on right now in this building, with this team."

He continued, "Obviously had a long season last year, quick turnaround into the offseason, we're in a new building. And every year is a new year, so we’re trying to build this team, we're trying to come together, so I'm just focused on the guys in this locker room, and trying to build it from the ground up again."

Henry concluded, "We have a long journey ahead of us; we have to start somewhere, so we're starting right now."

Future Questions Likely

As the offseason progresses, Patriots players will likely continue to field questions about Vrabel. The responses from Henry and Spillane on Tuesday may set the tone for future discussions unless new developments arise that alter Vrabel’s status before the season begins.