Vick conditionally reinstated

The whole world will have an opinion on Michael Vick being "conditionally reinstated," so here's mine.

Good for him.

Seriously. 23 months served for his role in the dog fighting/gambling ring is a long time. It cost him more than just 2 years of his career. It was 2 years of his life, the financial troubles, etc. He'll never shake the stigma of being a convicted felon. That just doesn't go away.

Now, he has been given the go-ahead to try and regain his status as one of the NFL's elite players. As mentioned in this blog before, Vick is a tremendous athlete, and he becomes a threat to the opposition with the ball in his hands. His work as a quarterback can be called into question (statistically speaking), but if a team takes a chance on him, and his off-the-field baggage, who knows what he can do.

Commissioner Roger Goodell has given Vick the green light to sign with a team, report for practices, and he can play in the final 2 pre-season games. After that, Vick can do everything but play in the games until week 6. On the surface, it sounds like a 5 game suspension, 7 if you count the first 2 pre-season games he won't be allowed to play in.

There will be those that wonder why Vick won't be allowed to play until week 6 of the regular season. I think the word "conditionally," is vital in this decision. In my opinion, that gives the Commissioner the option to allow Vick back sooner, provided Vick doesn't break the rules (which I don't think he will).

Vick released a statement Monday afternoon, which read "I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to commissioner Goodell for allowing me to be readmitted to the National Football League. I fully understand that playing football in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given.
"As you can imagine, the last two years have given me time to re-evaluate my life, mature as an individual and fully understand the terrible mistakes I have made in the past and what type of life I must lead moving forward."

This doesn't sound like the Michael Vick of old. This sounds like someone who realizes that he's made mistakes, paid for them, and is wanting to start fresh.

All he needs now is a chance.

Mike Solarte