Why Michael Vick Should Be the Favorite for 2012-13 NFL MVP

Since coming back to the NFL in 2009 with the Philadelphia Eagles, Michael Vick has revived his career and become more of a pocket passer.

Still, with the ability to wow opponents by using his athleticism, Vick has proven worthy of NFL MVP consideration in recent years. Provided that he plays a full 16 games for the Eagles in 2012, the league MVP is certainly not out of reach.

Development

While with the Atlanta Falcons from 2001-06, Vick had never thrown for 3,000 yards or had a completion percentage 56.4 percent. In addition, Vick was also more of a scrambling having actually compiled over 1,000 rushing yards in 2006.

Well, despite only playing with 12 games for the Eagles in 2010 and then 13 in 2011, Vick hit new career-highs as a passer. Two straight years hit went over 3,000 yards (over 3,300 in 2011) and has performed his two best completion percentages (62.6 in 2010 and 59.8 in 2011).

It's no surprise that Vick has developed rather quickly since getting back under center and we can only anticipate that to continue. After all; he's also hit new personal bests in quarterback rating with 100.2 in 2010 and 84.9 in 2011.

As long as Vick remains on this improving path of development, his offense will provide much success in 2012.

Potential

Vick's current develop, of course, leads to his future potential. Despite turning 32 years old before the 2012 season kicks off, Vick still possesses the scrambling ability to keep defenses honest.

In 25 games during the past two years, Vick has accounted for 1,265 rushing yards and 10 scores. Now, as he continues to improve from under center, the upcoming season has elite potential.

For one, Philadelphia's offense is going to remain focused around running back LeSean McCoy as he is coach Andy Reid's best weapon. This will help Vick though, as play-action pass and bootlegs make him more dangerous to make plays.

Include the draft selection of underrated receiver Marvin McNutt out of Iowa, and the Eagles now present a complete receiving corps. Vick has another reliable target to spread the field and his mobility will counter-balance any blitz packages from the defense.

Considering how well he finished the 2011 season during Philly's four-game win streak (seven touchdowns to three picks, 97.2 rating and 1,110 passing yards), that momentum will need to carry over into 2012.

Presence Under Center

In Vick's 25 games played for the Eagles since 2010, Philadelphia has a record of 15-10, but in only five of those has the offense scored 20 points or less (all losses). In short, the defense was a major issue for the Eagles during the past two seasons as Philadelphia competed in many high-scoring affairs.

Had Vick not developed quickly since joining Philly, the Eagles would have been much worse than 18-14 over the past two years.

Heading into the 2012 season, the Eagles do have increased expectations, as 2011 finished well and the offseason has been impressive to say the least. Vick's presence under center though, plays a big role in Philadelphia fielding a balanced offense.

Although they were 8-8 last year, the Eagles still ranked No. 9 in passing and No. 5 in rushing. Think about how much more prolific and effective Philadelphia is going to be this season with a stronger defense to rely on.

That said; it can only be as productive as last season with Vick at the helm. His proven high-level of consistency, if anything, warrants preseason NFL MVP candidacy. Lalso est we forget, the Eagles went an NFC East best 5-1 in the division last season (4-1 with Vick at QB).

John Rozum on Twitter.