Are Falcons making the right football decision on Vick?
Vick leaving the field in his last NFL game at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC)
VICKSVILLE – Let’s go there today. But let’s keep up the good manners we’ve been working on this offseason.
Fussing is fine. Cussing is not.
Two of my favorite folks in the NFL – Gil Brandt and Jamie Dukes – shared their very different views on
Michael Vick’s possible return to the National Football League.
Former Falcon DeAngelo Hall was fined for supporting Michael Vick.
Let’s look at some of the issues:
SHAKING OFF THE RUST: Vick has not played since Dec. 31, 2006 against the Philadelphia Eagles, when he left the game with an ankle injury giving way to Matt Schaub.
He was working out in Bobby Petrino’s offense over the 2007 offseason when the federal dogfighting case broke.
“It will be a challenge, but I’m not nearly as concerned about that,” said Dukes, an analyst with the NFL Network and former player.
Brandt, the former Dallas personnel man, shared a story about a linebacker the Cowboys drafted out of Missouri, who went into the service for two years.
“When he came back he was just not the same,” Brandt said. “I think it’s like somebody that drops out of school for two years and then they try to recover their study habits, it’s very, very hard. . . .
NFL Network's Jamie Dukes.
“I just think it’s really hard for a guy that is away and misses two years to get back up to speed and realize that you have to work to be successful because you lose that edge.”
THE WILDCAT OFFENSE: Most have contended that Vick could come back as a Wildcat offense quarterback.
“The spread helps him get a job,” Brandt said. “If and when he’s cleared. He can do that pretty well because of the fact that he can run so well.”
Dukes thinks that with teams – like the Falcons – emphasizing the running game, that Vick is a fit for any run-heavy attack.
“Look at the Falcons and their success,” Dukes said. “Most teams think if we can play good defense and run the football, we are going to be successful. So what Michael brings to the game. . . is you’re going to have one of the top three rushing offenses in the league. That’s just fact. Every year he’s played that number speaks for itself.”
VICK LACK OF PASSING PROWESS: Vick has a lively arm, but he was still developing as a passer. Former
The infamous trick water bottle from Miami International Airport. (D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER/AJC)
coach Bobby Petrino would have helped him along if things had worked out.
“Some might say he’s not a career 60 percent passer; are we going to ignore the yardage that he gets running the football?,” Dukes said. “Are we going to ignore all of the other things that he does?
“He’s not the prototypical NFL quarterback, but that does not mean that he’s not a good quarterback. He still will be a good quarterback.”
Brandt never liked Vick as a passer.
“At Virginia Tech, he hit 56 point something of his passes,” Brandt said. “Which is not very good. His brother (Marcus) who wasn’t even considered a good passer and hit 59, almost 60 percent of his passes. In the Wildcat formation, that is probably where he has to be if he’s going to be on offense.”
CAN VICK STILL PACK THE STANDS: It’s no league secret that for years before Vick arrived, selling out Falcons game was a difficult task. TV blackouts have a place in local Falcon lore.
“Vick is recession proof,” Dukes said. “That is the one thing that I can say about him that people forget. If he’s going to play, he’s going to pack out whatever stadium he’s going in.
“How many members of PETA are actually season ticket holders? You where here with the Falcons fans when this thing went down. You saw that the season ticket holders wanted Michael Vick back.
“They understood that he did something terrible and they understood that he needed to pay some form of a price for what he did. But they wanted him. This wasn’t a racial issue, black, white or purple. Falcon fans, season ticket holders, wanted their quarterback.
“So whatever team he goes to, those fans are going to want their quarterback to play. Especially, if their quarterback position is poor. Are you telling me that Michael Vick won’t go into St. Louis, where they are worried about selling tickets and sell that place out? You are telling me that if he went to Kansas City that he wouldn’t pack that place out? I know they just got Matt Cassel, but before that. If he went to Detroit he would pack that joint.”
Cleveland and San Francisco are two other quarterback-needy teams Dukes mentioned. (Hey, Cleveland does have the Dawg Pound, too! I know, bad joke.)
Vick could smile back during OTAs in July of 07 before the dogfighting case broke. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC)
POSITION CHANGE: Agent Joel Segal and Vick’s camp are not considering a position change to wide receiver, running back or defensive back.
Brandt thinks that might not be wise.
“I don’t know if you can teach a guy to back pedal, but he’s an athlete,” Brandt said. “He might be a corner because of his speed and athletic ability. Because of his running ability, he might be a running back. There will be opportunities for him, but I think it will be extremely hard for him to come back as a quarterback.”
Vick is a quarterback in Dukes’ book.
“He’s not Peyton Manning, but you know what, he’s got some things that Peyton Manning doesn’t have,” Dukes said. “Peyton has some things in the passing game that Mike doesn’t have. Nevertheless, he’s a very effective quarterback. . .
Loading ...“That guy can play quarterback. He’s not Steve Young in the West Coast offense, but guess what, who is? He is a good enough quarterback.
“His numbers are pretty darn good, when you compare it to some of the bums who have played the quarterback position. This guy wins games.”
THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES: For us folks that have covered the Vick case from the beginning, we know about the substantial role The Humane Society of the United States played in helping to convict Vick.
PETA does all of the protesting, but the well-financed Humane Society does the heavy-lifting.
It’s ironic now that they now may play a role in helping Vick cleanse his reputation. Here’s a link to a blog written by their president Wayne Pacelle.
FROM THE E-MAIL BAG: Here are some of the e-mails I received this week on Vick’s release to home confinement.
“Orlando, I am surprised no one did a story about Vick’s day to day life in prison. There is some disconnect in this country to what prison is. I hear people saying he needs to be punished when he gets out. What do they think he was doing in prison?
“You mention he will be on home confinement and add the 3,500 square foot house. You think a killer cares if he is juiced in a mahogany electric chair or a metal one. They must have something in the journalism school that says to leave the description of prison or punishment alone.
“If you talk about it maybe someone might not be afraid of it, get it figured out, and maybe want to go there.
“The place is hell; the man has been through hell for a damn dog fight.”
* * * * *
“The no good SOB should never be allowed to play in the NFL again.”
* * * * *
“Now that he has paid his debt to the dogs, can we move on, and let him get on with his life. He should not have been in jail for fighting dogs, and I am a dog lover, but who died and made P.E.T.A. gods. I hope he is allowed to play football, or (whatever) he wants to do without (a) newspaper reporter recording his every move. . . .
“The media should get over it, and let him move on, the public has.”
* * * * *
“I believe the Falcons are making a BIG mistake in not keeping Vick. Yes, we have a terrific new starting quarterback who deserves to remain that way. However what if he gets hurt? You need a good backup and certainly could we believe that the other QB’s could come close to filling Ryan shoes?
“Michael Vick is serving his debt to society by virtue of his prison time, probationary period and substantial loss of income. He is paying the price for his very poor past judgments. He has had plenty of time to think about his stupidity while he was in Leavenworth. . . .
“Atlanta sports teams have traded away so many good athletes and have nothing to show for it. Vick can contribute and I believe that when Vick is reinstated, Mr. Blank should consider what Vick could do and give Vick, a talented star, another opportunity.”
* * * * *
Remember the rules, y’all. Fussing is fine. Cussing is not.
Let’s try to have a civil dialogue on this. Are the Falcons making the right football decision? Should they let Vick play in a preseason game or two in order to rebuild some value and then trade him? Will you get anything for him when teams know that you are going to cut him if you can’t trade him? Should they just wash their hands and move on?
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440 comments Add your comment
Barnley
May 23rd, 2009
10:22 am
NO to ever playing in the NFL. The NFL has got to draw the line in the sand against thuggery, and Vick is a good place to start. Let him work at his $10-an-hour construction job.
Barnley
May 23rd, 2009
10:23 am
Just say NO.
soultherapymag.com
May 23rd, 2009
10:30 am
Everyone on here has there right to there own opinion But, alot people on here talk about Mr.Vick charactor and values. What is strange is some of even in your writings have bad charactor to call this man who yes made a mistake A thug, Scum of the earth and anyother deragatory name says alot about your charactor and values. Michael Vick has innocent children who has done nothing to anyone but, they have to hear people talk about there father like he murdered a person. For all that said he murdered dogs he was not convicted of that if you have been following the case. For those who support him good for you and for those who dont thats fine too but, if you made a mistake and served whatever punishment given to you. You would want someone to give you a second chance also. None of us know Mr. Vick personally so how can we judge his charactor on one situation in his life. I say God BLess him and his family and hope all goes well for him
In God We Trust
May 23rd, 2009
10:31 am
I agree the falcons should move on. Rolled the dice to get Matt Ryan and he turned in a surprising season when I actuall thought he would choke. I haven’t been to a game since the post Vick era. Like the home state team but going to a game isn’t exciting any more. I rather sit at home and watch it in High Def. Falcon fans,or haters of vick who say and write all the negative comments about Vick when he’s trying to move foward with his life whatever direction that may be for him. Should forgive and forget because God has done the same for us.
ANTI-NEGATIVE GUY
May 23rd, 2009
10:36 am
Vick Supporter you are just not real bright. I hpe you have not reproduced and I really feel sorry for you. Michael Vick made his own bed and realistically overall was ner more than an average NFL QB
Jay Darwin
May 23rd, 2009
10:36 am
I Think Vick has a credibilty problem with the Falcons who have moved on and quite frankly don’t want a return to the circus surrounding Vick.
That said, regardless of one’s personal feelings of Vick once being a reprehehsible thug he has indeed paid his debt and deserves an opportunity to work in his chosen career.
If he is re-instated and plays somewhere he will then be under a microscope for the rest of his years and must conduct himself apropriately. Personally, I believe he is an arrogant SOB. Once the extra-ordinary heat is off and he’s once again “wowing the crowds” he will return to his normal self…as they say: “Can’t change the spots on the cat”.
Dave in Marietta
May 23rd, 2009
10:37 am
Anyone who would hurt an innocent defenseless dog is a twisted (fill in the blank) and deserves to be punished. Anyone who feels sorry for Vick and takes the attitude “well, it was only a dog” is also a twisted (fill in the blank), imo. That said, he’s been punished according to our system of justice, he should be able to move on. I don’t see why he should be denied the opportunity to pursue playing football. I sure won’t be paying to see him, though. I’m not a PETA member and I AM an NFL football fan. If my team went out and got Vick, though, I would definitely be less likely to want to watch or follow them.
ANTI-NEGATIVE GUY
May 23rd, 2009
10:38 am
MEKA 76 PETA is strictly an advocate for pets, not humans. You didn’t know that!!!!!!! Not real bright.
Joey Porter
May 23rd, 2009
10:38 am
Crap doodoo MV7 will polarize the city along racial lines
? The city and the country has been polarized from it’s inception. Where have you been? Didn’t you learn anything at those prestigious North Fulton schools?
How does a man doing his job polarize a city? Why doesn’t matt ryan polarize the city but somehow Michael Vick polarizes the city? Both play the same position?
History = His story. The facts change depending on the narrator.
Tom Brady you mean the dude who has kids out of wedlock like mv7, and has shoot outs at his wedding.
Tom Brady was OK when Bellicheat knew what the defense was doing.
When he had the best team in modern football and his team relied on him he choked on the biggest stage.
Tom Brady’s intelligence got him very far in college 9he couldn’t even beat out drew henson) and in the draft.
I think not. If intelligence was truly an indication of athletic performance the NFL would be littered with players from the Ivy League.
Lekendrick Williams
May 23rd, 2009
10:40 am
If anybody in your family was charged with the same thing…I bet the attitude would change. The dialog would probably go like this. ‘Are you serious, there just dogs. I cant belive they would punish people for killing dogs. Where is this worl heading?” Dont worry Phelps, you can still smoke your weed and keep all your endorsements. But oh no, since it is a man of color, we have to make a prime example of him. I’ve never seen people so passionate about dogs until they found a black man involved with dog fighting. I wish those same people would look at black people as something more than dogs. You have not moved foward in any way its just a cover up until something like this happens is when you show your true colors. If the world was ending today, I wonder how many people would try to save their dogs over a human being. Just something for you judges to think about. Oh and remember one day you will be judged for all the things that we havent seen you do. Thats what so unique we know this about him but your stuff still needs to be swept from under the rug.
Falcon Fan
May 23rd, 2009
10:41 am
I think that Arthur Blank should come down off of his high horse. Do not be so hasty on turning the page on Michael Vick. Matt Ryan, who is developing into a good QB, is only one sack away from injury, then what? Let Mike return to redeem himself!
Lekendrick Williams
May 23rd, 2009
10:41 am
who are you an advocate for?
Cedric
May 23rd, 2009
10:42 am
donta stallworth just killed a man for driving drunk, but there are still more people crying about a dog than a person. sad times.
Lekendrick Williams
May 23rd, 2009
10:43 am
They have to do their job, thats what they get paid. Do you recieve a check from them. If not then you are not very bright anti-negative guy.
Dave in Marietta
May 23rd, 2009
10:44 am
“I wonder why doesn’t PETA advocate for abused children the way they do animals”. Possibly, Meka 76, it’s because their focus is for the ethical treatment of “Animals”…that’s the “A” at the end. Think about it.
Catheryn
May 23rd, 2009
10:46 am
I believe foremost in forgiveness and second chances….even third chances sometimes. But Mr. Vick tortured innocent animals. And I cannot fathom being able to cheer for a team that employs either Jeffery Dahmer or Michael Vick. I strongly suspect that the Falcons would be shooting themselves in the PR foot by bringing Mr. Vick back onto the field. Let the man find another way to make a living and prosper in this life.
DJ of ATL
May 23rd, 2009
10:53 am
Hey LW, you need to get a life man…this was about Football and semantics, not fanatics.
News Buff
May 23rd, 2009
10:54 am
Vick will be fine. He has a lot of “in the closet” teammate supporters. They do not want to make their support public fearing losing endorsements.
Lekendrick Williams
May 23rd, 2009
10:56 am
Nerves are being struck DJ I can feel the love.
Dave in Marietta
May 23rd, 2009
10:57 am
Lekendrick, How in the world does this get to be a racial issue? I’d be just as pissed at a white guy who hurt dogs as I would a black guy. How is this a racial thing? Are there a lot of black people who support a guy like Vick just because he’s black too? I’m white, but I sure as H wouldn’t support a white guy who hurt dogs. Do you think Vick didn’t get adequate legal representation. I guarantee he had a better lawyer than a poor white (or black, for that matter) guy would have gotten.
mars
May 23rd, 2009
11:10 am
If this is going to persist before we get a decent article to consider, then I’ll comment, after all.
Cedric, DontE Stallworth parked his car and called the police, waited for them, and took full responsibility for his actions. It turned out that evidence suggests his actions did NOT cause the mans death, and had he been completely sober the same results may have occurred. So, your argument doesn’t apply in the least. Do you have anything else to offer? Yeesh!!!
I am no fan of PETA, but let the uneducated commentators (tormentors) be aware that PETA is an anagram- People for the Ethical Treatment of ANIMALS. They are narrow minded fanatical people intent on their cause to the point of ignorance just like Vick supporters. Mr. Rock, meet Mr. Hardplace.
And Lekendrick (Lord, honey, I am so sorry your parents stuck you with such a masculine name), I HAVE criminals in my family. I judge them harsher than other criminals, because I inadvertantly am involved through no fault of my own. That’s unforgivable. There is a path back to grace, but it has to be tread. For forgiveness there has to be penance. If you claim you did nothing wrong, then no forgiveness is available. Nothing to forgive. Only damnation. This IS the Christian viewpoint.
Joey Porter
May 23rd, 2009
11:13 am
I can’t believe that in two months football season wil be starting again. Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
J
May 23rd, 2009
11:19 am
We went farther this season with Ryan than we ever did with Vick. Arthur Blank would be making a HUGE mistake if he takes Vick back and replaces Ryan. IF Blank decides to take Vick back, there might be some initial outcry and some issues, but I recognize that it’ll be more expensive to buy out his current contract if he’s traded. If he comes back to the falcons he’ll have to learn a secondary role instead of a starting position – maybe in a running/receiving role, or maybe as a backup quarterback for Ryan. But it would certainly be a mistake to make Ryan think that he’s not welcome just because a FORMER star came back – Ryan’s done more this year to make people sit up and pay attention to the falcons than Vick ever did (before his prison charges that is), and it would be a mistake not to recognize how much Ryan actually works with this team and how much he’s brought it together after the fracturing Vick caused.
No matter what team he goes to, he’s not going to have the kind of star power that he used to have, no matter what the experts say. His reputation, both on and off field, has been affected by his poor choices. He may have “served his time” and “repaid his debt”, but it’s still going to haunt the rest of his professional life. He won’t be the “star quarterback” that he was before he went to prison – he’s been out of the game too long, and the dog-fighting charge will haunt him for the rest of his days, both personal and professional. He may end up playing again, but I doubt it’ll be in such a prominent position as starting quarterback. This could be bad, but it could also be (economically) good: people who may not usually watch football might tune in to whatever team he plays on just to see what he does and how he does it after being out for so long. He may be horrible, or he may still have some remnants of talent – but whatever happens, he won’t have the “shine” that he once had before he was charged and convicted; there’s a tarnish to the silver that he can’t ever get back, regardless of where he goes. He may become the greatest football player of all time and it’ll still be there as a footnote, and eventually it *will* affect how crowds see him; it’s not always easy to put a criminal past behind one, especially if the person was a prominent sports player or other member of society when things happened.
Maybe the cowboys can take him – they have enough drama to spare for the entire NFL this year.
MV7
May 23rd, 2009
11:22 am
I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE THE FALCON TO RELEASE ME TODAY, SO IF ANYONE KNOW UPPER MANAGERMENT PLEASE PLEASE ASK THEM TO RELEASE SO I MAY MOVE ON. AND REALLY DO WISH THE FALCON WELL IN THE FUTURE.
*LOVE YOU ALL MV7*
*TO MY TO TRUE FANS THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYS AND SUPPORT*
AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU ALL
Wawtawsha
May 23rd, 2009
11:22 am
Are the Falcons making the right decision ?…hmm…This question is not even a valid proposition at this point in time. Why ask it ? Doesn’t Vick still have 2 months of house-arrest remaining, and hasn’t Commissioner Goodell already stated he will wait until full completion of state/federal actions before considering Vick’s re-instatement ? Do we think Mr. Goodell has his calendar marked and is anxiously awaiting to render a hasty judgement on this ? 2010 seems a more likely time to expect to see Vick on the field again, anywhere…to me.
Comments regarding this thread/blog…I’d love to see Vick play again in the NFC South, i can’t understand those who fear that. Not for the Falcons, tho. If the competition wants to rely on some sandlot plays, let em have at it w/Vick, he’s their Man (sic). I think it would make Van Gorder’s day. Speed Kills !!! on Defense, too. Busted plays that make gains occasionally, however spectacular they might be, are no way to instill winning confidence amongst a TEAM.
Vick has/is paying a heavy personal price for his own actions, the penalty flag for him seems excessive if one ponders/compares his wrongs committed vs. so many other criminal enforcements or lack thereof that we all have witnessed in life. He certainly should be allowed to re-engage a pursuit of a career in Pro Football, but he isn’t owed by anyone. If any debt remains, it is Mike’s debt to his former team mates, paying public fans, coaches and Mr. Blank, as well as to him ownself for squandering God-given talents. I hope he does well in Life, look forward to seeing him wisely use his talent that we all know fades with age in this game that truly emphasizes being the Best one can be…physically{youth} and mentally {character,experience}. The Falcons are building a genuine PRO TEAM…now, and my joy as a long-suffering fan is in Now and the Future with current acquisitions and development. I hope the organization and Mike can both redeem something eventually from the ashes of a franchise QB’s meltdown, and that if that’s impossible, write it off and move Forward.
mars
May 23rd, 2009
11:22 am
Lekendrick, did not mean to offend. I assume you are female because the prefix to your name is a feminine determinant in the French language, meaning “the”. Hence, “The” Kendrick, a feminine determinant of a masculine name. If this caused offense, I apologize for writing it. The comment wasn’t important to my opinion anyway.
Steve
May 23rd, 2009
11:35 am
Y’all keep saying he’s done his time … Well, he hasn’t done his time … He is sentenced to home confinment. He’s still serving his sentence . . .
Michael Vick has been a Huge Role Model for 1/2 the kids of Atlanta. Literally on Sundays, you used to see thousand’s of # 7 Jerseys all over town. This city absolutely adored him. All for his achievements on the athletic field. Which was funny, as he turned his back on this town … He never spent any time here, he never participated in any local events or charity.
Let’s run down a list of events in the criminal timeline of Michael Vick …
In early 2004, 2 men were arrested in Virginia for selling pot in a truck belonging to Michael Vick.
In late 2004 Vick and his posse were flying out of Atlanta, and one of his “employees” was caught on tape stealing the watch of a security guard.
In 2005 a woman filed a lawsuit against Vick for giving her the clap.
In 2006 Vick gives a Double Finger Salute to the Home Town Fans after a loss to the Saints.
In early 2007 Vick reluctantly surrendered a water bottle to security at Miami International Airport that smelled like marijuana and contained a substance in a hidden compartment. He was not arrested and was allowed to board an AirTran flight.
In April of 2007 Vick was scheduled to lobby on Capitol Hill, hoping to persuade lawmakers to increase funding for after-school programs. However, Vick missed his flight and he later failed to show-up for another seat booked for him later that evening.
All of these airport incidents happened as Vick was the advertising spokesman and celebrity endorser of Air Tran Airways. Needless to say they dropped his contract.
He managed to lose endoresment contracts with Coca-Cola, EA Sports, Kraft Foods, Hasbro and AirTran. Vick went from being the highest paid player in NFL history in 2004, signing a $130 million contract, to bankruptcy while in prison.
Twice Vick put family pets into the fighting ring with pit bulls because he thought it was funny to watch the pit bulls injure or kill the other dogs. Vick also admitted watching his friends hang, shoot and electrocute pit bulls. They found 30 dead dog bodies on his property. Vick left 47 maimed dogs at his house. Bad Newz Kennels was Huge Multi-State Operation.
While free on bail and awaiting sentencing for his felony conviction, Vick tested positive for marijuana in a random drug test. This is a violation of the conditions of his release.
The guy is an absolute slimball.
You can say they only went after him for who he was, and I’ll have to agree with you . . .
Iceman
May 23rd, 2009
11:36 am
Matt Ryan forever!!
SEC
May 23rd, 2009
11:44 am
all this is rediculous. The man was “involved’ in dogfighting. If anyone has lived in Georgia for a long period of time then u remember the dog fighting ring that was busted in conyers. Do u know how much time they got? not long if any at all. For michael vick to serve 2 years in federal prison is a hit to the legal system. We have murderers that are serving less time now days. Stallworth for example killed a guy while he was drunk. Why isnt that coverage like Vick’s. The only thing that was reported recently was that there might be loop hole for him to get away with it. Really? where is PETA? Arent humans technically animals as well?
AM3R1CANONE
May 23rd, 2009
11:45 am
Just a few points here…I have lived in Atlanta for the past 12 years; I am not a fan of any of Atlanta’s Sports Teams. The company I worked for had season tickets for the Falcons and the Hawks so I have been in attendance to enjoy the games fo more than a decade.
You ask the question what has Vick done for the Falcons?
1.) HE HAS PACKED YOUR ARENA FROM DAY ONE; FOR SIX YEARS STRAIGHT. THERE WERE PLENTY OF EMPTY SEATS PRIOR TO HIS ARRIVAL.$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
2.) HE MADE THE FALCONS FLY AGAIN(BRAND NAME, ADVERTISING DOLLARS$$$$$$$
3.) HIS #7 JERSEY WAS THE NUMBER ONE SELLER THE ENTIRE TIME HE WAS IN THE NFL$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
4.) WHEN THE FALCONS PLAYED AWAY GAMES HE PACKED THOSE ARENAS AS WELL$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
His contribution is not measured solely by his on field stats but his value to his team and the NFL.
HE MADE EVERYONE INVOLVED $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
He earned every bit of the bonus money he was paided and none of it should have been paided back to the Falcons; Arthur Blank made far more than that off of Vick’s celebrity.
As far as it being a privilege to play in the NFL…What a croc a crap. There are only 2000 are so players in the NFL and believe me it took years of blood,sweat and tears to make it there. There is nothing privilege about it…YOU EARN IT!!!!
I have been to prison and for those of you who feel its not punishment enough; go spend 3 hours in prison…trust me; three hours is all you will need to understand you are not in Kansa anymore. You are caged like the rest of the animals around you.
Vick should never play in Atlanta again; Matt Ryan is our QB…this year Matt will have it tough; He is no longer a secret.
E
May 23rd, 2009
11:52 am
I believe in second chances, and Vick deserves his. He has been punished, and that should be the end of it in, two months. The Falcons should evaluate the wildcat option, and keep him. At, least for now. Everybody wants to distant themselves from Vick. It is totally racial, let him be.
TROTTINGHOME
May 23rd, 2009
11:53 am
does it really matter what happens to vick
and yes the falcons are right in what they do with vick
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 23rd, 2009
12:00 pm
Looks like its civil enough in here. Everybody trying to address the issues.
DHD: Haven’t had bacon and eggs. But I did cut the grass and laid down some mulch already.
G. TAMPA BEDWETTER: Nice name!
ANDY C: 1. What are the contract ramifications for the Atlanta Falcons?
Vick’s contract is suspended. His $7.5 million base salary did not count toward the team’s salary cap last season. However, his prorated bonus counts against the salary cap. That number for 2009 is $6.43 million. If Vick is traded, an additional $680,000 — his prorated bonus number from 2010 — would be absorbed under the 2009 salary cap. This amount is not significant as most teams operate with as much as 10 percent of “dead cap money.” The NFL salary cap for 2009 is $127 million per team.
Here’s the link to the story, 10 questions surrounding Michael Vick’s return to the NFL.
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2009/03/26/falcons_vick_return_nfl.html
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 23rd, 2009
12:02 pm
Also,
STEVE: THAT’S a good and quick hitting summary.
BOOTS: That’s a legitimate concern. But Favre didn’t have a high wonderlic score. He had a 13. So you can be taught a system. Have to be a willing student though.
Drew
May 23rd, 2009
12:05 pm
The Wildcat is a gimmick, a fad, a trick play that will soon be clamped down by bigger, faster defenses and smarter D-coordinators. Vick is almost 30 now, will lose a step (if he hasn’t already) and injuries will bring him down eventually… and he isn’t smart enough to be a pocket passer. He’s demonstrated that already, just like he’s demonstrated his total lack of character, over and over again.
He may play again, and I will root against him every step of the way.
LadyLawyer
May 23rd, 2009
12:09 pm
Yes, he should be able to play in the NFL again. But going back to the Falcons should not be an option, even if they wanted him back. With the exception of some of his former teammates, the owner threw him under the bus, tried to take back his bonus, and would put him down every time he was in the media. I agree that what he did was wrong, but the man packed the stadium and he was not such as bad guy when he made millions for Mr. Blanks. Thus he had already earned his money because before Vick, the Falcons were in the same category as the Hawks….lackluster team that made you sleepy watching them. One thing that’s clear out of this whole situation is that if people got so upset over some dogs (and I really love dogs) then what about taking that samem energy and fight for human beings that are being murdered, neglected, and discriminated against everyday in the streets of America? And let’s not forget that other NFL players have been in legal matters far worse then him….remember the NFL player that got away with murder…he went on to win the Superbowl. Also, the league has plenty of wife beaters, drug heads, and drunk drivers.
BigSherm7
May 23rd, 2009
12:18 pm
It’s amazing how some who want mercy when they do wrong don’t want to see Michael Vick receive that same mercy! Here you have people like Leonard Little, who committed vehicular homicide, getting another chance to play pro ball. As for gambling, Vick and Pete Rose cannot be compared in any way because Vick didn’t bet on pro football, but on dogs, whereas Pete Rose bet on baseball, which is why in my opinion he should never be voted into the baseball hall of fame.-SNC7-Obama2012
PTC DAWG
May 23rd, 2009
12:19 pm
Why are you even writing about this?
Scott
May 23rd, 2009
12:25 pm
Hey: tyler
May 22nd, 2009
11:13 pm
Leggomyeggo, I will buy your Vick jersey for what you paid. Just show me the reciept.
You got yourself a deal man! I have a Vick Jersey signed and framed! Bought at a charity Golf Auction. Paid $500.00
You ready to put your money where your mouth is? Yes, I have receipt. While we are at it, any others interested when Tyler does not respond?
Scott
May 23rd, 2009
12:31 pm
Steve-
Congrats man! Best post ever on this beaten to death topic. You should start your own column.
LayLo-1
May 23rd, 2009
12:34 pm
Everyone is always quick to not forgive. I am an animal lover, but why do people tend to put animals before humans. There are people being done worst in this world. So why dont people get out and protest for them. Those who can not fend for themselves. So he is a felon. Why will Mike Vick not be concidered for a second chance. If this was you and your family you would want that 2nd chance. So give him a chance because he have paid his dept to the world over 10.
BAKERMAN
May 23rd, 2009
12:35 pm
HOW MANY ‘ONE MORE CHANCE’ EPISODES WILL THERE BE. hAVE WE FORGOTTEN THE OTHER ‘ONE MORE CHANCES’? RON MEXICO, THE WATER BOTTLE, FLIPPING OFF THE HOME TEAM FANS. COME ON PEOPLE, HE SHOULD BE OUT OF ‘SECOND CHANCES’.
mars
May 23rd, 2009
12:39 pm
SEC, pay attention. An abscence of guilt isn’t a loophole. Stallworth was guilty of driving drunk when a man committed suicide by stepping out in front of him. He deserves to lose his license for a couple months, and be warned of a harsher sentence should he be so stupid in the future. Suppose you have been drinking, and while driving home you are sitting at a red light. While sitting there another car plows into you killing the driver, who has NOT been drinking. Who’s at fault? You’ve been drinking, yet have done absolutely nothing to contribute to the accident whatsoever. Answer: the sober man is at fault in causing his own death. This is not an embellished scenario, but an actual court case in 1993 that created statute to prove Stallworths innocense. And HE IS INNOCENT of all but drunk driving. I support your rights to make your point. Just use facts, not fiction. The allegation you made against Stallworth is fiction. Now, I agree with your assertion that the currently playing murderer and other scoundrels should be weeded out of the NFL, NBA NHL, and all parts of society as well. I look forward to the righteous day when that occurs. However (and I can’t stress this enough), the fact that low-lifes such as this despicable murderer have gotten by without their “just desserts” is absolutely NO EXCUSE for leniency to those wrongdoers (like Vick)who DID face justice. Embracing a lenient type of logic with foster an atmosphere of gross abuse and fingerpointing without justice EVER being served.
unweaned lil pup
May 23rd, 2009
12:39 pm
The Falcons with Blank at the helm are a very image-conscious team. I will let others argue about how much game Vick could bring to the field, and whether or not the fans would flock to see him. The problem is he no longer fits Blank’s mold. Michael Vick has in incurable and
unrehabilitable disease.. a flaw in character that exists in his soul. Anyone who can standby
and find enjoyment in the pain and suffering of living creatures for entertainment purposes,
and himself participate in “drowning” and “back-breaking” dogs deemed unsuitable, can’t be fixed. That is a flaw in the soul, much like a pedophile who can’t change. Blank realizes that his image is forever damaged in the minds of many people.
no leader
May 23rd, 2009
12:48 pm
face it, vick just wasn’t and still isn’t too bright, the play book was simplified for him and he still seems lost, he’ll get another chance I’m sure but will probably piss it away, he and his ignorant brother, face it your atl hero is gone, along with his multimillions, stuff your 7 jerseys, running was his only talent anyway, he sure didn’t have the smarts to lead a team, fumbled away several games, without even being touched, receivers were breaking off routes as he danced around like a fool, your BOY is gone homeys.
ronlinjenk
May 23rd, 2009
12:54 pm
The Falcons doesn’t deserve to have Mike Vick play for Atlanta again. He did wrong and he paid his debt. I’m a country boy myself; we love animals but do not equate them to a human life. All I see is evil from this city when it comes from certain athletes. PackMan Jones should never suit up in the NFL again because if his repetitive ignorance. Vick on the other hand gave needed life to this city. I hope he goes to a team/owner who really cares and can help him along. I can say Jerry Jones has the balls to defend his players so the media don’t destroy them. The Falcons better hope he never plays against them with a NEW team. I’m sure it would be a record breaking game……
ronlinjenk
May 23rd, 2009
1:02 pm
Admit it people….the reason why you are here is because you miss this guy. Otherwise you wouldn’t be spending your valuable time responding to comments. The owner already stated he will never play for the Falcons again.
Curious George
May 23rd, 2009
1:04 pm
Why would Arthur Blank refuse to hire drug-using, underperforming, undereducated criminals when he was in charge at HOME DEPOT but give them $130 million contracts to them as owner of the FALCONS?
Would Blank have ever hired this same person if he had applied for a job at HD ?
Maddogg
May 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
Whose Vick again?
John
May 23rd, 2009
1:23 pm
Since when did the NFL become the paragon of high morality? Is a footballer now held to a higher moraliyt standards than priests, politicians, sports franchise owners, etc? I wonder if some of posters are tuned in to what is hapening in their local communities, schools, and churches. I doubt it. And finally, you so-called dog lovers need to get over it. You let leaders of the pet-friendly organizations pocket over 70% of the donations and say nothing. Show some outrage on that before you scream at Mr. Vick.