NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell officially reinstated former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick earlier today.
Vick’s reinstatement is conditional, meaning he could be suspended for a certain period of time. It is being reported that he could play in regular-season games as early as October.
However, he can still participate in preseason practices and attend workouts and meetings if he is signed by a team. He would also be eligible to play in the final two preseason games.
During the regular season, Vick would only be able to participate in team activities except games. Goodell did say he would decide whether or not to reinstate Vick sometime before or during week six of the regular season.
Vick was suspended indefinitely by the league in 2007 after he admitted to participating in and funding a dogfighting operation in Virginia. He served 18-months in a federal prison in Kansas and additional time under house arrest at his Virginia home.
“Needless to say, your margin for error is extremely limited,” Goodell told Vick in a letter. “I urge you to take full advantage of the resources available to support you and to dedicate yourself to rebuilding your life and your career. If you do this, the NFL will support you.”
Vick also released a statement through his agent Joel Segal.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to commissioner Goodell for allowing me to be readmitted to the National Football League. I fully understand that playing football in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given.”
Goodell has also appointed former Colts head coach Tony Dungy to mentor Vick by serving as his “Personal Adviser.”
Based off many recent reports, it seems that many teams have not expressed interest in Vick before he was reinstated today. It is possible that some teams were waiting for Goodell’s ruling.
There is also a possibility that Vick could play in the UFL. The upstart league has expressed interest in signing the quarterback despite the negative baggage that could come with him.
The UFL’s Orlando franchise currently own his rights. Recently, their head coach Jim Haslett said that the team would not mind having Vick play for them.
