In 2001, the Atlanta Falcons used their first overall pick in the draft to sign Michael Vick, a Virginia Tech Hokie. Not only were Vick's skills causing a buzz, but he was also the first black quarterback to ever be drafted at number one. (Quick side-note: He was also drafted in the 30th round of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies...he didn't play baseball at Tech). And immediately, he earned his recognition. He led the Falcons to an NFC Championship game, ended the Packers' playoff streak at Lambeau Field, and just overall kicked a lot of ass. But he was also the quarterback; he never was the leader. He never earned that captain's honor he was given. Talented, no doubt, but immaturity began to eclipse his talent.* Flicking off fans, giving girls genital herpes under the alias "Ron Mexico," having a friend sell weed out of your truck...the list goes on. But everything came to a head in July of 2007. Exit quarterback. Enter Convict.
Almost two years later, enter ex-convict. Almost two years later, he gets out of jail. Almost two years later, he's given another chance. Two years later, he's a possible MVP.
Where was this Michael Vick when I needed him? What changed Michael so much? In Atlanta, his disrespect and selfishness got him deemed a "coach-killer" by Jim Mora, Sr. Fast-forward to November 2010 and he's encouraging linemen and reprimanding return men for fumbling. This is a strong charge here, but I have to say it: Michael Vick is a better man than when he went to prison, and it is because of prison that he is a better man.
The American prison system is definitely not known for making sure its former residents stay out of prison. (Oh look! Statistics!) We focus more on punishment than rehabilitation. Everyday ex-cons can hardly find jobs, can't vote, or own even own slaves. (jk) But maybe, and just maybe, Mike's story is the happy one: the one of a man realizing his mistakes in prison and re-assessing his entire downfall. Perhaps it took Mike 18 months of shitty food and constant butthole guarding to realize how badly he tossed away the opportunity of a lifetime. Not only did he work his ass off to stay in shape for the NFL, he emerged from the gates a better man. A better leader. A better quarterback. A better person.
Then again, he did fight dogs. How can we forgive him when we stories like this? Well, some people won't. To some, he's just another ghetto hooligan who got what was coming to him. Can't outrun your past, boy. That's what you get for being a product of your surroundings. But I'm not in that group. I lost faith in Michael Vick in 2007. But I have since gained the faith back. The number 7 I laud now not only throws hard and runs fast, but also behaves on the field like a gentlemen. Dr. Chamberlayne would be proud, I believe. Maybe prison is to blame for his renewed personality. If that's the case, let's send Randy Moss and T.O. to Leavenworth. But I doubt that their stories will be as positive. That's a testament to Vick's character.
As a Falcons fan, I say "Go Eagles!" I root for Vick all the way. Second chances are hard to come by. Let's hope he makes the most of it. I'll see you in the NFC Championship.
*It's been a long time, so if you don't remember, lemme throw some of that talent your way:
-First quarterback/running back combo (with Warrick Dunn) to run for 1,000 yards each.
-Has highest yards-per-carry average in NFL history
-NFL Postseason Record for Quarterback rushing yards with 115
-Only quarterback in history to rush for over 1,000 yards
I could do this all day...
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This was great Ric; well said.
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