That's right, after serving 18 months of a 23 month sentence in prison for illegal dog fighting, Mike Vick signed yesterday with the Philadelphia Eagles. Vick was released from prison to home confinement on May 20, 2009. & Like many Americans, Vick was in search of a job. It didn't come easy as many teams were in need of a quarter back, but were not willing to take a roll of the dice. On paper Vick brings a rushing game that could be just as deadly as his passing ability. However with Donovan McNabb as the starter, it's likely we'll be seeing Vick coming off the bench. Then again with McNabb's injury history being a liability, Vick could serve as the perfect back-up if needed. The wild cat offense is another thing that Vick could contribute to if needed to.
Vick made a press conference earlier today with coach Reid in front of hundreds of reporters and over two dozen cameras. Second chance was throw around quite a few times in the news conference, as was the word 'Contribute'. Vick said countless times he was thankful for a second chance and said he wouldn't disappoint. He also said he's just here to contribute and help the team win their 1st Super Bowl, no matter what position he was asked to play. With the acquisition of Vick, also comes a reign of controversy and protests. Outside of the facility that held the press conference, were hundreds of dog and animal lovers with signs and shirts to go along with their chants. But like Vick said in the press conference, he knew he was going to have to regain the respect of the fans, and also noted there are some fans that would never forgive him for what he has done.
Vick who said he can't wait to play, will be get his first practice with the Eagles tomorrow and could play in a preseason game as early as game 3. His first regular season start will depend on commissioner Goodell's decision. He could be reinstated by week 6 at the latest, and possibly as soon as week 1. Vick who still has plenty of debt to pay off, signed a 2-year deal worth $6.8 Million dollars ($1.6 mil. the 1st year and $5.2 mil. the 2nd year). No money is guaranteed however if Vick doesn't make the team. He was also said to have been offered a 2-year deal from the Cincinnati Bengals for $2.3 mil. Vick is making contributions to help work with the community along with the Humane Society, for part of his probation.
Before the Eagles signed Vick, many teams were rumored to have been in the Vick sweepstakes, including my 49ers, but the Eagles were not one of them, which is why this caught everyone by surprise. & As much as the 9ers are in need of a quarter back, I'm not sure Vick would have been the best solution. And an angry mob of PETA supporters at the Stick would be the last thing we'd want.
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