Philadelphia Eagles have stepped in to sign disgraced quarterback Michael Vick on a one-year deal, with an option for a second year.
Disgraced quarterback handed NFL return at Philadelphia
Philadelphia Eagles have stepped in to sign disgraced quarterback Michael Vick on a one-year deal, with an option for a second year.
The 29-year-old, who served 18 of a 23-month sentence after being convicted of conspiracy and running a dogfighting operation, had an indefinite suspension lifted on July 27 by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
And despite there appearing to be few takers for the formerly highest paid player in the sport, the Eagles came out of the blue to hand Vick a lifeline, although he is unlikely to allowed to play until week six.
Vick's appointment comes a week after the news that Kevin Kolb, back-up to starting quarterback Donovan McNabb, strained a knee ligament in training, although the injury is not thought to be serious.
McNabb has led the Eagles to five NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance in eight years, and was rewarded with a pay rise in the off-season.
Good place
"I'm a believer that as long as people go through the right process, they deserve a second chance," said Eagles coach Andy Reid.
"I've had a chance to talk to Michael a few times to make sure I know where he's at and he's in a good place.
"We're excited to get a good football player -- you're talking about one of the top QBs in the league when he was playing."
Reid has already assured McNabb that Vick's presence would not create a controversy at the position.
"There's no threat for me," McNabb said. "It's an opportunity for us to add another threat to our offense and our team. I lobbied to get him here because I think everyone deserves a second chance."
As part of his reinstatement, Vick will be eligible to play in Philadelphia's final two pre-season games and can participate in all team activities except for games when the regular season starts.
