Vick Returns to the Free World

Charlie Klein

Leavenworth, Kansas has never been this newsworthy. It's most notorious and short term resident Michael Vick is expected to make his return to relative autonomy today following his release from the Kansas state prison following the conclusion of his 19 months served for organizing illegal dog fights.

Michael Vick's fall from grace was as meteoric as his rise to NFL stardom. A number one overall pick by the Falcons in 2001, the 28 year-old Vick was conceived as the savior of the franchise by Falcons owner Arthur Blank. He led them to the NFC Championship game in 2002 by famously knocking out Brett Favre's Green Bay Packers in Green Bay, a feat that had not been accomplished by anyone since the NFL instituted the post season. Vick holds records in rushing yards by a quarterback and is fourth all-time in Falcons franchise history in passing yards.

All of the accolades and adoration heaped upon Vick came crashing down as he was found to have been in charge of dog fighting ring Bad News Kennels in 2007. Vick was accused of financing the operation, directly participating in dog fights and executions, and personally handling thousands of dollars in related gambling activities. Vick eventually reached a plea bargain with authorities admitting that he had financed the dog fights in addition to having directly participated in them. He denied, however, that he had ever personally killed a dog.

Vick's future has been subject to much media speculation. He has expressed a desire to work with the Humane Society to help eradicate dog fighting amongst urban teens. ESPN reports that Vick has met with Human Society president Wayne Pacelle, a meeting that was initiated by Vick according to one of the attorneys who is part of Vick's legal team.

ESPN analyst and Super Bowl winning quarterback Trent Dilfer insisted this morning that Vick had a definite NFL future to offer any one of the 32 teams in the league. Dilfer commented that Vick would be a better fit behind an established quarterback such as Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts or Tom Brady of the New England Patriots who also had strong head coaches. Most analysts agree that Vick would fit into an offense as a wide receiver or a wildcat quarterback. Whatever the future may hold for Vick, his release from prison will certainly not be his last act in the public eye.