Vick Signs with Pittsburgh Steelers
After loosing veteran quarterback Bruce Gradkowski to finger surgery, the Pittsburgh Steelers were forced to dip into the free agent market. With that dip, they pulled out former number one overall pick Mike Vick. The 35-year old will report to Pittsburgh shortly to learn the play book and meet his teammates, while Jarvis Landry will take over the second team squad for the time being.
We have signed veteran QB Michael Vick & placed QB Bruce Gradkowski on the Reserve/Injured List.
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 25, 2015
TRANSACTIONS: http://t.co/XWbG1mWR4s
When Michael Vick was released from prison in 2009, Mike Tomlin was interested in bringing him to Pitt. Six years later, Vick's a Steeler.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 25, 2015
Vick hasn’t played since last November when he was with the Jets, but stayed active in his time off. Prior to joining the Jets, Vick reclamated his career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2009 following a three-year hiatus. Originally brought in by Andy Reid, Vick soon returned to pro bowl form when he got his chance in 2010. He earned the starting job for a second time when Chip Kelly came in prior to the 2013 season, but lost his job again to Nick Foles after a hamstring injury early in the season.
Vick ultimately signed a one year deal with New York, and got spastic starts while mentoring Geno Smith. In ten games with the Jets, Vick threw for over 600 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also ran for 153 yards, but fumbled the ball five times.
It’s not clear how much we will get to see of Michael Vick. With Ben Roethlisberger leading the offense, Vick most likely won’t get any opportunities unless Big Ben suffers an injury. If he can gain some chemistry and learn the play book, we might see Vick in the final preseason game against the Panthers at home.
Obviously, associating Michael Vick with your team will have its public relations hassles. Vicks past has certainly plagued his reputation, and that can’t ever be untarnished. He’s accepted responsibility for his actions, served his time, and has given back to the community in so many ways. At this point he’s probably signing his last NFL contract, and he deserves one last shot to win a ring.