What to Know About Dianna Russini’s 2 Kids, Sons Michael and Joey

Dianna Russini, a former NFL reporter, has been in the spotlight recently, not only for her career but also for her role as a mother. Married to Kevin Goldschmidt since September 2020, the couple welcomed their first son, Michael, in August 2021, followed by their second son, Joey, in October 2022. The arrival of her children has been a significant highlight in Russini’s life.

In a candid moment on The Bill Simmons Podcast in August 2025, Russini expressed her joy in motherhood, stating it is the “highlight” of her life. The couple’s first child, Michael Andrew, was born on a meaningful date—his arrival coincided with his grandfather’s birthday. This coincidence added to the joy of welcoming a new family member, with Russini remarking, “This is our little guy who taught us today in a world filled with so many overrated experiences, this one lived up to it all and more.” As of now, Russini’s social media presence has evolved, with her account now private.

The couple’s second son, Joseph “Joey” Kevin, arrived just over a year after Michael and carries the name of Russini’s late grandfather. The emotional significance of this name choice was highlighted in an emotional Instagram post where she dedicated the name to his memory, saying, “The person who always told me I could do anything and be anyone was my late Grandpa Joe.” Russini expressed immense gratitude for her family, stating, “We are beyond lucky and blessed.”

However, Russini’s professional life remains fast-paced and demanding. She recently made headlines following an incident involving New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. On April 7, photos of Russini and Vrabel holding hands emerged, prompting speculation about their relationship. Vrabel later clarified that the interaction was “completely innocent.” Following this, Russini announced her resignation from her position at The Athletic, stating, “Commentators in various media have engaged in self-feeding speculation that is simply unmoored from the facts.”

In the aftermath of her resignation, reports surfaced featuring further images of Russini and Vrabel, with some showing them kissing in a bar as far back as March 2020. The situation has led to renewed interest in both the journalist’s and the coach’s professional and personal lives, with requests for comments sent to both parties involved.

Balancing her fast-moving career with motherhood is a task Russini approaches with determination. In a 2024 interview with the New York Post, she shared insights into her parenting routine, highlighting how her unpredictable work schedule often leads her to forgo familiar parenting duties to handle urgent news calls. In these moments, her husband, Kevin, steps in to support her. “Kevin supports what I do and understands the NFL at a level that I would argue he should be in football,” she remarked, emphasising the importance of having a partner who shares the demands and nuances of her profession.

Russini’s delivery of Michael was an unexpected adventure, demonstrating her unique experience as both a mother and a sports journalist. She recounted that during labour, the doctor engaged her in conversation about football, which he believed would keep her calm. “I gave him great intel,” she joked, recalling how remarkably fast the delivery was, lasting just 12 minutes.

While contemplating the possibility of expanding their family further, she admitted on The Bill Simmons Podcast that if it were not for the challenges of pregnancy, she would be keen to have more children. “If I just didn’t have to carry that baby again and go through the trauma of pushing that baby out, like game on,” she stated.

As Russini continues to navigate the complexities of motherhood alongside a demanding career in sports journalism, her journey reflects the balance many parents strive to achieve. Her story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that while professional ambitions remain important, the joys of parenthood can be equally gratifying.