Michael Vick picked up by Philadelphia Eagles

Word got out last night that Michael Vick has signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. While some Eagles fans are probably stoked to have Vick, there was a bit of backlash from others, considering the nature of his crime and the public reaction it provoked. CNN’s coverage of this includes a reaction from […]

August 14, 2009; 10:21 AM • by Valerie Catrow

Word got out last night that Michael Vick has signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.

While some Eagles fans are probably stoked to have Vick, there was a bit of backlash from others, considering the nature of his crime and the public reaction it provoked.

CNN’s coverage of this includes a reaction from The Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. CEO Susan Cosby said:

“Philadelphia is a city of dog lovers and most particularly, pit bull lovers… To root for someone who participated in the hanging, drowning, electrocution and shooting of dogs will be impossible for many, no matter how much we would all like to see the Eagles go all the way.”

However, team president Jim Banner made it clear that the team had thought about the possible impact of Vick’s conviction on public perception of the team, stating:

“It was very tough initially, but everybody we talked to said the same thing, that he was remorseful and that he had gone through an incredible transformation, that he was basically good at heart. We heard this over and over again from people who felt he deserved a second chance.”

Eagles coach Andy Reid added:

“This is America. We do make mistakes. This situation is a chance to prove he’s doing the right things. He’s been proactive speaking across the country.”

No specifics regarding the details of the deal have been released yet. A press conference will take place at 11am today to officially announce the signing.

August 14, 2009 10:21 AM 10