rejected the idea of signing Michael Vick. As the embattled quarterback
searches for a team that will give him a chance to continue his NFL
career, fans and even oddsmakers in Las Vegas are predicting which team
will sign him. The Pittsburgh Steelers could be Vick’s last hope of
signing with a team before the season begins. Here are five reasons the
black and gold suits Vick perfectly. –a.r.
Mike Tomlin –
Coach Tomlin would be the perfect role model and coach to Michael Vick.
Both men were raised in Newport News and have a close relationship with
Tony Dungy. Dungy hired Tomlin as an assistant coach in Tampa Bay and
he continues to counsel Vick as he adjusts to life after prison.
Rooney still Rules
– Dan Rooney is the most respected owner in the NFL. His willingness to
challenge other owners to hire black coaches caused the league to
implement the “Rooney Rule.” Unafraid to challenge the status quo,
Rooney could be the only owner who could firmly withstand any negative
backlash.
Lack of Depth at QB –
Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon are currently the backups for
quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on the Steelers’ depth chart. Signing
Vick would give the team a backup quarterback who is a three-time Pro
Bowler and leave plenty of room under the salary cap.
Stability
– Only seven months removed from their Super Bowl 43 victory, the
Steelers have an abundance of veteran players, which would allow Vick
to slowly return to winning game form if Roethlisberger is injured.
Supportive Fan Base
– Pittsburgh’s fans eat, sleep and bleed black and gold. Animal rights
groups will likely protest if Vick is signed, but their presence will
have little effect on die-hard Steelers fans.
