Micheal Vick Update: Return to NFL Possible

Michael Vick, the former Atlanta Falcons star football player pleaded guilty this morning to a state dog fighting charge. This step was necessary for him to be eligible for early release from Federal prison and the possible return to the NFL to continue his football career.

Mr. Vick pleaded guilty to one charge of promoting dog fighting and not guilty to the other charge, animal cruelty. That charge was dropped as part of his plea agreement. He received a three year suspended sentence. He also made a public apology to the Judge saying, "I want to apologize to the court, my family, and to all the kids who looked up to me as a role model."

Vick

Mr. Vick is presently serving a two year sentence in Leavenworth, a Federal prison, after being convicted on federal charges of dog fighting in 2007 after admitting his part in bankrolling dog fighting at his home. He also admitted to personally killing dogs with poor fighting performance in the dog fighting arena. Additionally he landed in bankruptcy court after losing a record breaking amount of $130 million received in a ten year deal he made with the Falcons in 2004 His release is scheduled for June, 2009 and serve three years on probation.

Since early release from a federal prison is not permitted if there are any other pending charges, so by pleading guilty to state charge, he is eligible for early release and could be released to a half-way house.

As I was watching this breaking news this morning, on MSNBC, I was quite upset to learn that the NFL would ever consider bringing Mr. Vick back to play for them. After firing him, stripping him of his contract and his paid product endorsements, I applauded the NFL. However, I cannot get my brain wrapped around the fact that Mr. Vick's State guilty plea is likely to result in his return to professional football.

Is it possible that the NFL may be making a statement that Mr. Vick's short incarceration has taught him a lesson and the money which Mr. Vick can generate for their league is more important than making him realize that there are strong consequences for the cruelty that he willingly participated? What message is the NFL giving to our young people about the value of our animal life if they return him to their fold? I don't know about you, but I am concerned and angry at even the thought of his potential return.

Watch the video uploaded to YouTube by the Associated Press on Oct.31, 2008

Do you think the NFL will ever reinstate Michael Vick? Please share your feelings and thoughts by leaving a comment.