Thousands gave Michael Vick a standing ovation in his first NFL game in two years following a 23-month prison sentence. Vick appeared before a federal judge the day of the game to settle financial debts of $20 million. He then boarded a flight to Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field to settle business for the Eagles in a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars that evening.
Vick did not expect a warm reception from the fans but was pleasantly surprised as he emerged from the tunnel. “I can’t explain the feeling. It was unbelievable,” Vick said. “I didn’t think it would be that positive. I really didn’t expect that reaction. But I’m very thankful.”
On the field Vick was near perfect in limited action going 4-for-4 passing for 19 yards and a 1-yard run. Head Coach Andy Reid gave the fans a glimpse of how both Vick and Donovan McNabb would be used together on the field. On Vick’s first play McNabb was split wide right as a receiver. The quarterback combination will be sure to present matchup problems for defenses around the NFL.
Even in the sports world there are those who get a second chance and those who don’t. Maybe that would explain why Vick was cheered instead of booed when he returned to NFL action. Despite not playing the past two years, so far, rust does not seem to be a factor for the 29-year-old Vick. On the contrary, Vick will benefit from not taking NFL hits and two years of wear and tear on his body. Vick will be eligible to play in the final preseason game and then will have to wait up to six weeks for full reinstatement by commissioner Roger Goodell. Vick can only hope that the commissioner will be as forgiving as the fans. –lenn durant
