Michael Vick Injury: Is an 80 Percent Vick Better Than a Healthy Mike Kafka?

Though Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick did not fully participate in today's practice, he has been cleared for activity—a good sign that his concussion recovery progress is moving along properly. 

Backup Mike Kafka took all of the first-team snaps today, while Vince Young did not receive any. This is a sign that, should Vick not be able to play against the New York Giants Sunday, Kafka will be taking the reins of the Eagles offense.

Kafka got his first taste of NFL action last Sunday night against the Atlanta Falcons, when he was thrust into the starting lineup after Vick suffered the aforementioned concussion. Kafka completed seven of his nine passes, for 72 yards.

One of those incomplete passes bounced off the chest of receiver Jeremy Maclin, effectively ending the Eagles' chances of victory, falling 35-31.

While many close to the situation believe that Vick will end up starting against the Giants, this is not yet guaranteed. Kafka will have a major test on his hands should he have to suit up in Vick's place, and for a green quarterback with so few snaps to his name, it's hard to even project how he will perform.

I believe, however, that even with Kafka under center, the Eagles have an excellent chance to defeat the Giants in Week 3. Philly boasts some of the biggest offensive playmakers in the league, and I've no doubt that Kafka will be capable of getting them the ball.

Further, the Eagles defense, especially their secondary and pass rush, is one of the best in the NFL. Their quality of play can take a lot of the pressure off Kafka.

The one place the Eagles are weak—defending the run—should prove to be an even greater factor on the Eagles' chances to win, however.

Indeed, Vick's presence can mitigate this weakness better than Kafka, and the team may find itself exposed without the explosive play-making of its starting quarterback.

However, if Vick is only 80 percent recovered from his concussion, it isn't likely he will pass the five-step progression it takes to clear a concussed player for game time..

It's early in the season, and while this is a divisional game that could have playoff implications down the line, assuring Vick's health is much more important for the Eagles in the long term than it is to believe they can only win with Vick leading the team.

If the Eagles have as much confidence in Kafka as head coach Andy Reid claims, then he should start on Sunday if Vick's not 100 percent. Sometimes, the safest move is also the smartest.