SEDONA, ARIZONA — The Athletic has temporarily paused NFL journalist Dianna Russini's reporting duties while it reviews her coverage and the nature of her relationship with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. The move followed the publication of photos showing Russini and Vrabel together at the Ambiente luxury hotel in Sedona, Arizona.

The images depict the two poolside, in a hot tub, and on a rooftop deck. Both Russini and Vrabel are married to other people. The investigation at The Athletic is ongoing.

An initial review suggested the images lacked context, specifically the presence of a larger group of friends, a source at The Athletic said. Steven Ginsberg, executive editor of The Athletic, initially supported Russini's account that the photos were taken out of context. "These photos are misleading and lack essential context. These were public interactions in front of many people. Dianna is a premier journalist covering the NFL and we're proud to have her at the Athletic." Ginsberg said. New details from the report and information from the investigation subsequently raised additional concerns that are now being further reviewed, a source at The Athletic said.

Russini addressed the photos directly. "The photos don't represent the group of six people who were hanging out during the day," she said.

Vrabel also responded. "These photos show a completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable," the Patriots coach said. "This doesn't deserve any further response," he added.

Russini formerly worked at ESPN before joining The Athletic, which is owned by The New York Times Company. Her contract with The Athletic is set to expire this summer.