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Home > Terence Moore > Archives > 2008 > October > 15 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBlank’s right - Vick should return to NFL
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Everything that Falcons owner Arthur Blank told ESPN.com in a recent interview about what should come next for Michael Vick was exactly right.
First, Vick should be allowed to play in the NFL again following his stay in prison next summer. Second, Vick’s return shouldn’t involve having the Georgia Dome as his football home again.
The Falcons already have a quarterback, and he’s pretty good.
“We’re committed to Matt Ryan,” Blank told ESPN.com of his strikingly composed rookie who has led the Falcons to a surprising 4-2 record with an 82.9 passer rating. “Even before his early success, we were committed to Matt Ryan. We made that decision when we drafted him. When you select someone in the draft at that level and pay him what we’re paying him, you expect him to be successful, and you expect him to be a leader.”
It makes sense to me.
Once Falcons officials anointed Ryan as the new face of their franchise, there was no turning back - and certainly not back to Vick who earned a trip to the slammer over his dogfighting mess.
Even so, Blank was correct when he told ESPN.com about the virtues of second and third chances. Added Blank, “That doesn’t mean I believe in forever chances.” Then again, Blank came close to doing just that with Vick over the course of months, ranging from that water-bottle silliness to the flipping off of hometown fans during a game to that stolen-watch thing at the airport.
Vick is the Falcons’ past, though. Ryan is the Falcons present and future, but that doesn’t mean Vick can’t have a future …
With somebody else.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Mark
October 15, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
I agree that Mike Vick will play again in the NFL, but before he does, i’m sure that Atlanta will definitely get some draft picks for him since they weren’t able to acquire the 19 million out of him. I wouldn’t be surprised if Atlanta gets a 1st and 3rd pick for him or at least a 2nd and 3rd round pick
By Alan B
October 15, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
good position to take. I concur.
By Ryno
October 15, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
Absolutely he should have the chance to return with another team - but he can’t expected to return to the Falcons.
He lied to Mr. Blank on three seperate occasions (drugs - he tested positive, the dogfighting - he was convicted, his known associates - they were known and traveling with him)
How could he ever trust him again? I wish Mike all the best, but he’s run out of chances here in Atlanta.
By Carl
October 15, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
I agree with you and Mr. Blank…..especially with “That doesn’t mean I believe in forever chances.” Pay your dues and play, just be aware that you are a very fortunate and blessed individual and ACT LIKE IT! Oh, and don’t hang out with Pacman Jones.
By Bob
October 15, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Can Vick be picked up without compensation to the Falcons by another team? How does Vick affect the salary cap of the Falcons if he is picked up?
By Casey
October 15, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
Why not have Vick back as a RB/kick returner?!(because you know he’s gained some weight) … with special packages in the backfield with he and Ryan? An unstoppable offense!
By Daddys357
October 15, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
The only place that i could see Vick come back and play for would be Dallas as a back-up for Romo and let Brad Johnson retire after this season. With that being said I would like to see the Falcons get something in return for Vick be it cash or late round draft picks. I could also see someone like Al Davis using him as a back up for Russell, but other than those two teams who would crawl out on that branch……maybe New England??
By spotts
October 15, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
No question he should be back. We all make mistakes (granted Vick’s was quite a big mistake). Doesn’t mean we should condemn him forever. He’s paying his time, and when he’s done, let him return to the game that he loves (football…not dog fighting).
By Tone Loc
October 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
Terrence, weren’t you the one before the season saying DJ Shockley should be given a chance at the starting QB job. Glad to see you have come around to supporting Matt Ryan, something you should have done from the beginning.
By Me
October 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
To Mark,
Please tell me who you think is going to trade a 1st and 3rd round pick for a quarterback who has missed two full seasons while serving time in prison, and never lived up to his potential even when he was on the field.
Plus, every team knows the Falcons are going to cut Vick the moment he is released from jail, so why would they trade anything?
By GoGaBulldawgs
October 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
My best Christmas present would be never to read Michael Vick’s name in the AJC
By Brian
October 15, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
WOW! If I was Arthur Blank, I would be p** off at Vick for what he did to the Falcons. This shows you what a man Blank is. I guess Mr. Blank is a better man than me.
By willie
October 15, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
A first rounder for Vick? You are dreaming. You don’t get anything for guys with baggage. The Patriots were the only team willing to give even a 3rd rounder for Randy Moss and he hadn’t been out of the league for a few years like Vick. The Falcons will be lucky if they get anything.
By Spud Webb
October 15, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
Same as Pacman, Vick will get a second or 3rd or whatever chance he is on. Vicks will be in the CFL or Arena league though. No way a franchise will stick its neck out for this guy, especially with Pac getting kicked out again. It’s just not worth an NFL franchise. Think about it. Say a team takes a chance with him for a 1 year, 500,000. Vick goes bananas and the team wins 12 games and makes a run towards a superbowl. Do you honestly think that that team would then give him a multi year deal worth Millions (see Blank)?? I don’t see it happening. The risk is just to great, especially with Captain america, goodall running the show. All of this is just my opinion. I LOVED VICK when he was here. He made this town exciting. He blew it though, sad for sure. I wish him the best, just dont see any franchise taking the risks anymore.
By willie martin(woodbury ga).
October 15, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
Mike vick was and maybe still will be an exceptional talent i rerally enjoyed his stay here but , unfortunately when u make your bed you have to lay in it . The commissioner is taking a firm stand on professional standards if Vick is allowed to back thats fine but he has to be aware of all the conditions. It’s a sad thing to waste so much god given talent with no sense of reason and values..he should be allowed to come back but be aware of the The commissioners stipulations!
By Todd Green
October 15, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
Vick sould be able to play for ANY team that want him. Blank can say all he want, but most tems want the best players at each position, minus soem baggage.The Falcons are no different than the Dolphins… ‘we do not want Rick WIlliams or Ricky will never play for the Dolphins again”… But we find him on the Dolphin’ roster and producing. If Vick lied to Arthur Blank, bo big beal, Blank and COach Smith lied to DJ Shockley saying he would get a chance to start during pre-season. There was no reason for him not too. My point is, ‘people’ say tjings all the time, ‘people’ make mistakes. And most of all ‘people’ change their minds’. I hope Vick land somewhere in the MFL and I will be a Fan; he’s a great talent. 300 Yards passing and zero yards rushing or 200 yards passing and 100 yards rushing; I will take either from my QB.
By Joe
October 15, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
Why should MV be given a chance to play in the NFL again? All he has done is discrace himself, the NFL, and the Atlanta Falcons. And he’s a FELON.
This conversation would never happen if he was White and did not have speed. He sounds perfect for the Raiders. He and MeAngelo can hang out again.
By Jack G
October 15, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Why should he be allowed to play in the NFL again.?????? has he suddenly become a model citizen???? Is he the same old Vick???? anyone who is STUPID enough to do drugs promote and participate in dog fights squander (pi** away) millions associate with thugs, dosent need to be in the NFL.
By Dennis
October 15, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Hey if Vick can prove himself to be an NFL caliber player when he’s out of prison, then any team who is willing to take a chance on him should be allowed to do so. I wish Vick the best after doing jail time. I hope he’ll learn his lesson and stay away from the slammer…unlike Pac-Man Jones.
By willie
October 15, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
The Pats actually only gave up a 4th rounder for Moss….baggage guys are tough to move.
By Todd Green
October 15, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Authur Blank have littl concern for that Falcon Fans or the Atlanta Media thinks. If it makes sense to sign Mike Vick or Ricky WIlliams or Adam Jones, he will. Wake up Falcon Fnas, no matter what you think or write, you have no impact. and if either is on teh roster and playing well, if you are a true fan, regardless of how you feel about that particular player, you will attend as/or watch the falcons. I know I will.
By Terry
October 15, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Not many teams are going to touch Vick because he will be a publicity nightmare. PETA will picket practices and their games. His presence will be a big distraction to any team.
My guess he will go to Dallas because they only care about ability not character.
By Dave
October 15, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Ex con? Sounds like a perfect fit for the Raiders. Or the Cowboys…
By Eugene
October 15, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
I agree Terence. But, of course Blank would say such. He has lots of money invested (and wasted) on Vick. He’s hoping for some trade value. Perhaps there will be a struggling team that feels they have no choice but to take a chance on him - I’d say watch Detroit closely.
By slick
October 15, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
Mark: 1st and 3rd? 2nd and 3rd? Seriously? Dude the Falcons will be lucky to get any draft pick for Vick and will most likely have to cut him and get nothing in return.
By FalconsFan
October 15, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
Moore, How do you think Goodell will handle the illegal gambling aspect of Vick’s conviction? Too many people are overlooking that aspect of the Federal conviction when it SHOULD be very important to the NFL considering the scrutiny the NBA came under over the last year or so.
By Suffering Fools Madly
October 15, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Good riddance. Happy landings.
By Tom Davis
October 15, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
MV7 should be suspended indefinitely. Dog fighting is unacceptable. Further, after seeing Matt Ryan with Jenks and Roddy, it was Mike Vick who sucked as a QB not his team mates.
By Bobby Jones
October 15, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
I am surprised at the lack of attention given to what I feel is an anomily in terms of having players that are “good enough” when they are performing, but conversely they are “not good enough” when trouble arises. I understand that punishment is due when crimes are committed; however, I do believe that Michael Vick has not been treated fairly. This guy was “purchased” as a phenominal talent when drafted by the Falcons, he produced in ways that are unparalleled by most quaterbacks. When trouble arose he did lie; however he has been cast aside since trouble has reared its head. Do we not believe in redeemption?? Why isn’t Atlanta willing to give Vick an opportunity?? Is it a money issue (I guarantee that Vick would fill the stands- a return value on the investment in Ryan)?? What about some healthy competition between Vick and Ryan(isn’t that what athletics is all about)?? Saying Vick should play in the NFL again but not with the Falcons is like telling a your son or daughter after they’ve gotten into trouble “We’re happy you’ve gottn out of jail, but you can’t stay at my hous”. Vick was and is still indeed a part of Atlanta, so how can we simply cast him aside?? Question: If Matt Ryan went to jail would we treat his situation the same???
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 15, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Arthur Blank didn’t say anything that shouldn’t be expected of him. He has invested $72 million in a new quarterback so expecting him to take back Vick is not realistic. At the same time in a league where Gus Frerotte, J.T. O’Sullivan and Matt Cassel are starting quarterbacks, there is definitely a place for Michael Vick.
By GATORZONE
October 15, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
He should get another chance, and the Falcons should get compensation for him. If Pacman and Chris Henry are getting chances, so should he. Just… not with the Falcons.
By Money Talks
October 15, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
As a Falcon, Vick was given every chance to be a sucessful NFL QB. He failed. He failed because of bad choices and decisions. I hope he learn from HIS mistakes and can turn his life around on and off the fooball field.
By Josh
October 15, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Agreed 100%. Vick’s worn out his welcome here, but I hope he can get his life back together and show that some incredibly stupid decisions you make when you’re young and surrounded by bad characters shouldn’t hamstring you for life. Although dogfighting is reprehensible, I don’t think Vick’s an inherently bad person, but this young man needs SOMEBODY in his life to hold him accountable for his actions so he doesn’t wind up in jail again. Meanwhile, the Falcons have moved on. Fool me once, shame on you; fool me several times, shame on me. Blank’s clearly learned his lesson, and good for him. I suspect Vick will land with the Raiders or Lions. Or maybe even the Texans, as his skills are necessary to generating any offense behind that perennially leaky O-line.
By Mike
October 15, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
OH! Lets not forget the whole Ron Mexico episode! The Raiders will be ready for MV7 when he gets the shackes off!
By National Freedom League
October 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
MICHAEL VICK SHOULD NOT BE IN PRISON,..HE IS NOT A THREAT TO SOCIETY
By 82DAWG
October 15, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
Can’t keep a man from making a living at what he does best if he has the ability to do that job and someone wants to hire him.
By Waid
October 15, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
We will maybe get late round picks for him..definitely not first day picks. There is noone that’s willing to take a risk on a 1st or 3rd round pick for Vick (a guy fresh out of jail) and who is to say he wont return to prison after he gets out. I love watching the guy play but let him do it somewhere else. One more thing he needs to come back to the NFL not as a quarterback.. better off as a receiver or even a slashy runningback..
By Orlando
October 15, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Here’s one thing that people forget to mention: he’s still got to deal with the trial in Virginia. He may have to do more time for that charge.
Also, if there was any evidence that Vick was involved in gambling then Goodell might throw him out of the league all together.
So I’m not even going to begin entertaining the thought of Vick coming back, and neither should the people of Atlanta.
By Darrick
October 15, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Mike Vick, would be better served and so would the fan base of the Atlanta Falcons if Vick did return to the team. If for no other reason, with the way quarterbacks go there is a shortage of quality No#1 and No#2 in the league.
If he does leave Atlanta, depending on the team he goes to, success will come quick.
By Markus Rosenburghmanjensen
October 15, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Hey if the Roy Williams is worth a first, third, fourth AND a seventh founder, Vick is worth more than one low-round pick. Character was his biggest problem and that was an off-field problem. Sure, he was and might again be a PR nightmare for whoever gives him a chance, but the Falcons need not to get hosed on the deal.
By sathefari
October 15, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Yes, let the man make a living in the NFL.. An odd way to look at Vick screwing up the Falcons, if he didn’t, we wouldn’t have our current stud in Matt Ryan..
At least something good came of it.
By Constitutional Rights
October 15, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
*VICK WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS A GOOD GUY WHO MADE A FEW MISTAKES AND WAS USED TO MAKE A POLITICALLY CORRECT STATEMENT FOR *CERTAIN PEOPLE.Free the man and let him play football.—-Eating dead tortured cows at McDonald’s is unacceptable to me Tom Davis..but it happens every day.
By judge not
October 15, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
FORGIVE VICK AND YOU WILL BE FORGIVEN Vick will come back stronger than ever with a new mission in life.NO QUARTERBACK HAS EVER BEEN AS EXCITING TO WATCH AS MICHAEL VICK.Let the man have his freedom back. If anybody out there is better than Mike Vick,..THROUGH THE FIRST STONE.— I DIDN’T THINK SO
By TheManMike
October 15, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
I love reading all these posts by people who think they know soo much about NFL Team Executive thought process….
“no one will give up 1st or 2nd rounds picks..”
“no one will want to deal with the media fiasco..”
“no one…” “no one…” “no one…”
HAHA - you people will say anything to try and sound like you know somthing.
your opinions do belong here, but leave the decisions to the Execs.
thanks.
By Just Sayin
October 15, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Dog Fighting = Eating a hamburger, brilliant analyis
By barry
October 15, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
“ONE HEARTBEAT!!” “ONE HEARTBEAT,BABY!!!” That the ATLANTA FALCONS. We are fans of the team, not “ONE PLAYER”.
We have to close the book on Michael Vick. He is gone and will not be playing as a Falcon but for another team against the Falcons. Vick had his time in Atlanta. And a great time at that. He was one of us. However, his not being here has nothing to do with the Falcons nor Arthur Blank. It has more to do with his backstabbing friends and family who literally ruined this young man’s football career here in Atlanta, if not the NFL. all “kudo’s” should go to Arthur Blank for still standing up for Vick and stating that he will be a reference for Vick to the NFL Commissioner for Vick’s reinstatement in the NFL. Blank not allowing him to return to the Falcon’s is an organizational culture decision. A good one at that. I am confident Vick will always remember the confidence and love shown by the Falcons and Blank towards his career. I am more than confident that Vick understands Blank’s decision to not allow him to play for the Falcons again. Any responsible person with good sense can understnd both sides of this. And Vick is responsible and willing to accept his fate. Nevertheless, I am sure Vick feels bad he let Blank, his father figure, and the Falcon fans down by his off the field situation. He wanted to return and play football for the Falcons to give back to Blank and the fans the time and passion tha was given to him by Blank and the Falcon organization. However, we must move on from this as Mr. Blank said. It is time to close the book on Michael Vick playing in Atlanta. We will however see him again playing against us with some team in the NFL. But it will not matter because the Falcons will play any and everbody in the NFL with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!! One game at a time. That’s with Vick or without Vick, we will play wild, crazy and nasty, team football with “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!! NOW, ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!??????
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!"Ringold
By The Truth Comes Out
October 15, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Amen Tom Davis re:11:44 post. I tried to tell people on these blogs that he was not a quality NFL qb and now the proof is there. Ryan can play circles around Vick and is a class person that will lead us to championships. Out with the trash in with a respectable team! That is the new managements approach and it will work. GO FALCONS!
By IvanPayne
October 15, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
I don’t have a problem with Vick coming back to Atlanta at all. Isn’t there an opening in one of the concession areas of the Dome?
By mv7supporter
October 15, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
My boy should never gone to jail for fighting dogs. Hes not a child molester or nothing. Turn him loose and let him play. He a good boy, just misunderstood. MV09!!!
By FREE BIRD
October 15, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
VICK should return home, NOT JUST TO THE NFL… ASAP. —Go Falcons
By Scholar
October 15, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
Now, let me get this straight. First, Ryan is “pretty good”. Is TM making a point by understating the obvious? I hope so! Should a person found guilty and sent to prison for crimes committed while in the NFL be allowed to return? Of course not. Men with lesser offences have been put on probation and kicked-out, why shouldn’t Vick be held to the same standard. Blank is an enabler, his opinion about Vick has nothing to do with Vick, but only with himself.
By Catsmeow4
October 15, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
Vick, should have a life time ban on playng football any where,at any level.
By KnowshonDontKnow
October 15, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
Two words that should never be mentioned in the same sentence…EVER: Vick + Atlanta
No Vick, know peace.
Remember the first pass in the Detroit game this year - Vick never did ANYTHING even remotely like that. Vick’s an old story…move along, nothing to see there.
By bigeasy830
October 15, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Matt Jones has no worries of suspension after being caught with drugs and has a disposition on the case. Pacman Jones has never been convicted of anything and gets kicked out of the league, Mike Vick got 2 years in federal prison for a misdemeanor after the feds stacked trumped up charges on him. Suburban Atlanta had a very forgiving attitude for Heatley after his DUI lead to his friends death. A woman was raped in Kerney’s house and the media and the law hardly probed into it. I am sick of the media and the two faced owners of Atlanta sports pi$$ing on my head and calling it rain. I refuse to cheer for the Falcons again I don’t give a damn if they win the Super Bowl. I am through as a Falcons fan. It’s bigger than Vick and Pacman, it runs much deeper than that. I really don’t give a crap about either one of them, they both pretty much did it to themselves. But what is happening in the so called cleaning up the sport is well, keep it real, you know what it is.
By Harris
October 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
I really dont know why we are still talking about Vick. Let it go. Is there really nothing better to talk about, because I highly doubt that. LET IT GO!
By AGTFan
October 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
All this is assuming he get’s no additional jail time for the state charges. I see no reason to believe that he’s not going to spend some more time in jail after he gets done with his federal time.
Once he’s served his time, I think he should be allowed another chance. There are other players in the NFL who have had felony convictions and been reinstated.
By Harvey
October 15, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Mick should come back home. Ryan is have a good season so far. But before we say he is the MAN lets give him a year or two
By Previous Ryan Skeptic
October 15, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
I’m with Mr. Blank as well. I want to see Vick come back and redeem himself. Two possible suitors are obviously Jerry Jones and Al Davis. But I’m quite sure they would utilize him in different roles other than QB. Maybe a role similar to that of Antwaan Randle El? Switching gears, I for the first time am truly excited about the direction of this organization. Mr. Blank assembled a great staff and it’s obvious that he wants to bring a championship to the deprived city of Atlanta. Thank you Mr. Dimitroff and Coach Smith for drafting Ryan. I at first thought DJ Shockley should have been the starting QB before the season. But after watching Ryan play consistently well I was made into a true believer. Look out Peyton and Tom!
By Demetrous
October 15, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
I feel he was sentenced and when he complete his time he should be able to come back to the game and play. You can say what you wont but we all know that he will add exitment and increase ticket sales to what ever fanchise he plays for. The league would also benfit in revenue. So stop being negative his debt will have been paid.
By Brian
October 15, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
**Yes, Bobby Jones, if Matt Ryan did the same things that Mike Vick did, he would be treated the exact same way.
I love how some people have turned this into a racial issue.**
By Ted Striker
October 15, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Tone Loc: Terence Moore wrote a column back on August 9 saying Matt Ryan should be named the starter — before the season started. If you want to try calling him out on something else, fine, but not on that.
Tom Davis: Michael Vick IS suspended indefinitely by the NFL. On that subject, count me in as someone who’d like to see Michael Vick get his life together and return to the NFL.
Those saying he doesn’t deserve a second chance might want to ask the next Atlanta cop they see what’s on his/her (the cop’s) rap sheet. With 1 of 3 Atlanta police academy graduates having a criminal record, it’s a fair question. Vick not allowed to play in the NFL? How about a convicted criminal being allowed to carry a badge and gun and “arrest the bad guys?”
By Mike
October 15, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Whoa … wait a minute boys. Don’t forget that just being released from prison doesn’t make Vick automatically eligible. He’s got to get by the Commissioner … and he is no cream puff. I would not be surprised to see Vick suspended from the NFL for some period of time after he is released. And after missing 2-4 seasons of work plus having aging legs, plus being out of “football shape” - he may never play again. Who would want him as the face of their franchise - debt paid to society or not? He’s damaged merchandise, too controversial and way too much baggage. There will be many “Mr. Cleans” like Matt Ryan coming along out of college over the next few years, so why even consider Vick?He may beg his way into a few tryouts, but believe me - he’s played his last football in the NFL … does he speak Canadian?
By Richard
October 15, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
If Pacman can return to the league w/ a staff of bodyguards to “protect him from himself” why not another convicted felon…as talented athletically as Mike Vick was he was never displayed the decision making ability or accuracy required of a top flight NFL quaterback…skills Matt Ryan has already shown in abundance and he is a rookie, think Manning brothers, Brady, Revees and Brees….Mike Vick is a slot reciever for the Raiders or a cornerback for Cowboys, oh and break out the bodyguards….
By trippfromnahunta
October 15, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
Falcons will have a hard time getting a 1st round draft pick for Vick. I’m thinking maybe a 3rd or 4th rounder.
By Micah Baker
October 15, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Joe, you are right if he was white and didn’t have speed we would not be having this conversation. Because if he was he wouldn’t be viewed as a thug, criminal, and there would be no question that he would be reinstated into the NFL, because people would be saying, “He has learned his lesson; He’s not a bad person; He can be an effective QB in this league.” Please don’t start that if he weren’t black non-sense.
By T-Bone
October 15, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
Here’s a different take. Let’s bring him back to ATL, but not as a QB. Bring him back as a receiver or slotback or sort of a slash player. I’d love to see him confuse defenses: Is he going to run with it? Get the pitch? Get the pitch and then pass? Maybe he’ll receive it. Get him in the open field and nobody will catch him.
Talk about redemption.
By Vick Supporter
October 15, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
The Falcon fans are getting nervous…….they know redemption time for Vick is getting closer……. He will DESTROY the Falcons …….can’t wait to see it
By Micah
October 15, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
By Brian
October 15, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
**Yes, Bobby Jones, if Matt Ryan did the same things that Mike Vick did, he would be treated the exact same way.
I love how some people have turned this into a racial issue.**
Because it partially is. You really think Matt ryan would get treated the same way for real? I doubt it personally. He may get in some trouble but if he said sorry it would not be the same. It’s funny how some people think our governmenr system is so fair and unbias.
By blue
October 15, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Darrick; yeah, right. Do you really think Vick is the kind of guy who would embrace a role as a backup? And we have already seen in this city that, for the most part, the black fans will support him no matter what and would make all kinds of noise about why an inferior talent (i.e., white guy) is starting instead of “MV7”. We already see a lot of that with regard to Shockley. Come on man…
By blue
October 15, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Constitutional Rights: I know this is hard for you to understand, but the laws are not based on what YOU personally believe is right or not. The law says that eating dead cow is legal. The law says that killing certain types of animals for food is legal. The law says that fighting dogs for sport is illegal. You’ll forgive me if I don’t let you make the rules for society. Now go eat a hamburger and shut your yapper…and next time try just a LITTLE to have a coherent thought.
By micah
October 15, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
By Jack G
October 15, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Why should he be allowed to play in the NFL again.?????? has he suddenly become a model citizen???? Is he the same old Vick???? anyone who is STUPID enough to do drugs promote and participate in dog fights squander (pi** away) millions associate with thugs, dosent need to be in the NFL.
Brett Farve: Struggled with alcohol was addicted to pain killers.
Jared Allen: Alcoholic
Matt Jones: Drug charges
Hey guess what they are still in the league!!! I wonder if they fought dogs would they be considered horrible people, and that’s really all people like you are mad at Vick about because he killed “man’s best friend”
By Previous Ryan Skeptic
October 15, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
mv7supporter, have you stopped playing Madden yet? Yesterday you mentioned that Vick was coming back to take the starting job from Matt Ryan. Guess what? Mr. Blank just shattered your dreams. Get over it. The only time you will see Vick in a Falcons jersey is in your favorite video game.
By blue
October 15, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Bigeasy830; Yo, man…I feel you, dawg…it’s the ‘man’ holdin’ the brothas down. Can’t belee dey be treatin’ us that way, dawg. Bof uh dem is juss being hated on by whitey. Just ax me…I will tell you the troof…
Give us a break, man.
By The M-5
October 15, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Florence: You are such a one trick pony! I have been anxiously awaiting after the last 2 impressive wins to admit, ‘I, Florence, may have been wrong. This team MAY have something special. They MAY have made the right decision. They MAY be something proud of for this great city than the humiliation we endured on and off the field last year. Maybe someone is smarter than me, Ole Florence.’ Guess i need to break it down lyrical for you: It’s SICK - SO SICK You plus VICK = one TRICK Do write with your pen, or his afro PICK Better recognize this team, or suck a ‘RICHARD’
By micah
October 15, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
By Scholar
October 15, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
Now, let me get this straight. First, Ryan is “pretty good”. Is TM making a point by understating the obvious? I hope so! Should a person found guilty and sent to prison for crimes committed while in the NFL be allowed to return? Of course not. Men with lesser offences have been put on probation and kicked-out, why shouldn’t Vick be held to the same standard. Blank is an enabler, his opinion about Vick has nothing to do with Vick, but only with himself.
Scholar (that’s a funny name after reading this) who else has been kicked out the league? Pacman Jones? Is that the who else you are talking about? What you just said doesn’t even make sense. He committed a crime yes but it was not NFL related. Now if it was NFL related then I understand your claim. Blank is an enabler? Really? Now this is funny. All I can really say is what I’ve been saying for the last year or so, if dog fighting was not involved or Vick played another position would this be an issue? Not as much, and if you really think so you think too highly of our government which has proven to be unfair and bias for sometime now.
By Maniac is accurate
October 15, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Tripp is right, of course. The Falcons should, however, get at least a third-rounder and probably another pick, too.
Hey, Tripp, Vick is as fast as a freight train through Hoboken and I imagine you know what I mean.
By I.MUS WRITE
October 15, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Im completely over Vick ever playing here again,but he it still very talented and deserves another chance in the league………..
Pac Man /Chris Henry got second third and forth chances …..Larry Johnson has a liking for beating women and driving under the influence……………………If Vick isnt reenstated it would be a cry’n shame
He’ll go to Detroit,Oakland,Houston
By P-FUNK
October 15, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
MAYBE HE COULD PLAY IN A STATE WHERE DOGIGHTING IS A MISDEMEANOR
By Whopper Dawg
October 15, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Vick is a thug and a bum. I wouldn’t have him on my team if he paid me. Playing in the NFL is not a right. The NFL needs to greatly change who they allow to play in the league. Vick needs to go do something else with his life when he gets out of jail and take PacMan with him.
By Vick Supporter
October 15, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Face it Falcons fans, Vick is still the man on ths team, whether Ryan is here or not. He will never lift this city up the way Vick did, some other team will reap the benefits of greatness from Mike Vick, a REAL TEAM/ORGANIZATION/GM/WRS/O-LINE, all of the things that Vick didn’t have when he played here. No matter how great you are, you need good players and an organization around you. Think about it, Blank should still be p** at #7 for what he did to this team, but he wasn’t. Why, you ask? Because Vick made Blank MILLIONS, HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS, made people take notice of the Falcons, made us RELEVANT. The Falcons will be ok w/Ryan……for a little while. The NFL will figure him out and he will be exposed. If he survives, good for Ryan, he does have the ability to be an average qb in the NFL
By bfred
October 15, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
For those of you saying Vick should be allowed to return to the Falcons, as a quarterback or otherwise, there is a very simple reason(aside from Matt Ryan’s $72MM contract) why Blank will never permit it - Vice looked him in the eye on multiple occasions and lied about involvement in illegal activity. I don’t care how much value Vick could bring to the team, he simply has no credibility left to build on. I agree that once he serves his time, Vick should be allowed to play in the league again. But it is going to take that kind of credibility to get a team to take a chance on him, and he simply doesn’t have it in Atlanta.
For those who think he will “destroy” the Falcons everytime he comes here, you are forgetting Vick’s last year-plus. Defenses finally started stacking the line and daring him to throw downfield - and he couldn’t. Once the 100-yard rushing games dried up, the Falcons started losing. Vick is now a few years’ slower and certainly has not been able to work on his passing game. I don’t take any joy in saying this, but I feel like his window (at least as a QB) is just about closed.
By GT
October 15, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
He should come back, the league has a few that have already. It is a two way street, he has to have something to offer, it is not like the only one gaining is Vick.
By Jeremy
October 15, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Vick as a punt returner or a running back or reciever???? Are you freakin kidding me???? Have you not seen him carry the ball? Heck yea he is fast but he carries the ball like a loaf of bread and FUMBLES ALOT!!!!! And you call yourself a Vick Fan! You would be sentencing him to his death. Send him accross the middle for a catch and let Brian Urlacher nail him….
By wmatlanta
October 15, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
There’s only one place where Vick will fit in now no questions asked: Oakland Al Davis is just crazy enough to sign him.