Michael Vick Signing Sparks Emotional Debate

When word broke last night that the Eagles had signed Michael Vick to a contract, most, if not all, Eagles fans reacted with the same emotion. 

Confusion.

Vick, who was conditionally reinstated after serving close to two years in federal prison for running a dog-fighting ring, amongst other charges, was signed last night to a one-year deal with a team option for a second year. 

The questions started as soon as the report broke. Is it worth it? What is the reason for it? Don't the Eagles have other glaring needs? How do the Eagles sign Michael Vick after making repeated comments about how they only want character guys on their team?

Most fans in the Philadelphia area's initial reaction is anger and unwillingness to accept this move by the Eagles. They refuse to forgive Michael Vick for the heinous acts of cruelty he took part in towards dogs.

With that said, the only way to analyze this situation the correct way is you must first, take the emotion out of it. Many fans have said they will not support the Birds anymore. Let's be honest here. If they start the season 4-0, nobody is going anywhere.

Once your able to look at this with a clear head, I believe you must look at it in two separate ways. The off-the-field Vick, and the on-the-field Vick. They are two separate entities and they should be treated that way.

Let's start with the off-the-field Vick

I will start by saying I am not an apologist for Vick. I believe his acts were disgraceful. I feel he deserved every bit of the punishment he received, both with prison and his financial situation. I will never fully forgive him for what he did to those dogs.

With that said, this country is built on the foundation that everyone deserves the opportunity of a second chance. Michael Vick fits the bill.

He spent close to two years in a federal prison. He lost practically all of his money and was forced to file for bankruptcy protection. He had to face his family and children to explain the situation. He has missed most of the first year of his youngest daughters life.

The man has suffered tremendously, and rightfully so. But now he should get a chance to show people he is truly remorseful, and able to live a better life. 

It is unfair to compare his situation to others. Every mistake a person makes is different from another persons mistake. 

You should wait and see how it plays out.

Now to the on-the-field Vick.

From the Eagles standpoint, there is very little risk, with the potential for a very high reward. It is obvious he is not here to challenge McNabb as the starting QB. However, Michael Vick was one of the greatest of not the greatest athlete the NFL has ever seen. 

Notice how I did not say quarterback, as he was average at that position at best. But this guy could very well add a dynamic new component to what already has the potential to be a highly explosive offense.

If when he is cleared to play by the commissioner, he comes out and just does not have it anymore, well you only paid him a million and a half dollars.

Thanks Michael, but it just isn't going to work past this year.

However, if he comes out and can make some plays with his athletic ability, and can put this team in position to score points and win games, the sky is the limit with this offense. 

Just imagine the "wildcat" offense with this personnel on the field: Vick at QB. McNabb out wide on one side, DeSean Jackson on the other. Westbrook in the slot, with Maclin on the other side and LeSean McCoy in the backfield. 

Have fun defensive coordinators.

It is very unclear if the relationship between Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles will prove to be a harmonious one. 

This may or may not be the right place for Vick to rebuild not only his career, but his life as well. Only time will tell.

So before you start throwing your tickets on eBay, let the emotion settle. Take a step back and break down the situation. Many will still not approve. Some will.

Michael Vick's actions were inhumane. There is no doubt. However, forgiveness is an important part of American society. So let's give Vick a shot to prove himself. After all, it is the humane thing to do.