For a long time, Michael Vick was one of my favorite players in football. Having the ability to electrify a stadium with his incredible running abilities, I loved everything about his game. He really seemed like the next big thing in football.
I can remember the first time I ever saw Vick play. This was in 2001 against the Patriots. Having been a rookie at the time, the New England defense basically swallowed him, but Vick quickly progressed and developed. In 2002, I saw him once again, this time versus the Seahawks. Vick won his team the game.
Soon after, Vick shocked the football world with a post-season win in Green Bay against the Packers. I loved the way he looked on the field and bought jerseys, bobble heads, and every other piece of Vick memorabilia out there.
I followed his career; he continued his amazing runs while polishing his throwing skills. In 2005, he led the Falcons to NFC Championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles (ironically enough the team that he is now a member of). The sky was limit for him. He broke the QB rushing record in 2006. Then his world, career, and reputation became tainted forever.
He was indicted on dog fighting charges. He trained them. Gambled on them. Tortured them and in the end, killed them. There is no doubt; he hung out with the wrong crowd. However, I was shocked, appalled, and downright disgusted about his decisions and actions. How could any human being do this to an animal? It was downright cruel and inhumane. My respect and admiration for the athlete died. I tossed my jerseys in disgust and his collectibles are in storage somewhere. Would he ever overcome this travesty? Would he ever return to the NFL?
After two years of incarceration and much soul searching, Michael Vick has been given a second chance. The Philadelphia Eagles signed him to a 2 year deal this past Thursday. Does he deserve a second chance? Yes. He did his time and took his punishment. I can respect that, but won’t forget what he has done. Hopefully, he will partake in more community service and help put the memories to sleep. I think he can.
What kind of baffles my mind is looking at players like Donte Stallworth. Stallworth was responsible for hitting and killing a man with his car while driving drunk, and Stallworth is getting far last time than Vick did (just four weeks of time). I feel that both actions are unforgivable, but can’t believe Stallworth is getting off more lightly than Vick.
I don’t see anyone outside Stallworth’s house with signs with “Drunk Driver” or “Murderer”. If Vick is going to be thrown into the volcano so should Stallworth. They both deserve second chances, but need to be treated the same way. They are human and made terrible mistakes. Let them make good again. Good luck gentlemen.
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