NFL reinstates Vick, but stigma to dog him

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By Bob Cohn

Michael Vick did his time, spending 20 months in federal custody after a dogfighting conviction.

Now that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has conditionally reinstated the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, the team that signs him - assuming that happens - will face its own trial in the court of public opinion.

Many will find the club guilty of enabling a felon who contributed to the maiming and death of dozens, if not hundreds,of dogs.

Vick, who remains on three years' probation, will face new challenges himself. After an absence from the field of more than two years, he will attempt to revive his career and rediscover the specialtalents he displayed for six NFL seasons.

He last played a professional football game on Dec. 31, 2006.

"Nobody knows what kind of shape this guy is in and how rusty he's gonna be," former Washington Redskins and Houston Texans General Manager Charley Casserly said.

"It's going to be more of a transition than even he realizes," said ex-Baltimore Ravens coach Brian Billick.

As part of his reinstatement, Vick will serve at least a five-game suspension. He will have time to find his legs and his timing, reclaim his football acumen and ease into what figures to be a different and more limited role as a player.

But any team that signs Vick is likely to jump into controversy and public relations quicksand immediately.