Nike Re-Signs Mike Vick, Is It Deserved?

Mike Vick is the first major athlete in American sports history to be dropped by a sponsor, only to be re-signed later. Friday, CNBC’s Darren Rovell reported that Nike has in fact, re-signed Vick. 

This is a move, that just a year ago, would have received quite a bit more more scrutiny than it will today. Vick has certainly gained back a shocking amount of followers, but there are still a huge amount of people who would lay him out flat, given a chance. 

The real question is, does he deserve this new deal?

From a performance standpoint, one would have to be incredibly short-sighted to argue that Vick's 2010 performance does not warrant some serious recognition and a fat check or two.

Morally, though, does a dog murderer deserve millions of dollars and a second chance? Has he done enough to prove himself? 

Whether you forgive Vick or still hate him for his dog murdering, the fact is he's done about as good a job as humanly possible to salvage his image. Given the situation he has put himself in, I give him an A+ for crisis management. 

If you absolutely hate Vick, what he did in the past, and what he stands for, consider this:

Vick likely still owes creditors, people COMPLETELY removed from the dog fighting situation, people he has never come within three states of let alone had a telephone conversation with, millions of dollars. Figures totaled as high as $20 million two years ago; updated figures are not available.

Have a hard time being happy for the former Virginia Tech stud? At least be happy for the innocent men and women who lost their entire financial security because of Vick’s mishaps. Believe me, they are at home as you read this, in one heck of a mood.  

Deep down, I personally have a hard time trusting the guy. We all know he would still be dog fighting if he hadn't been caught. Still, there's a chance that deep down, he has changed. Only he knows that. I will give him the benefit of the doubt and simply say: Keep at it, Mike.