Michael Vick Reinstated by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Could Play in Regular Season Games as Early as October

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has conditionally reinstated Michael Vick, meaning he could play in regular season games as early as October. Vick can immediately participate in preseason practices, workouts and meetings. He can also play in the two final preseason games if he can find a team that will sign him. Several teams, including New York Giants and New York Jets, have already made it clear that they would not. I am sure that there is a team out there that will pick him up, even if it means going overseas to Europe.

You will recall that Goodell suspended Vick indefinitely in August 2007 after the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback admitted bankrolling the "Bad Newz Kennels" dogfighting operation. Goodell said  that Vick must show remorse and signs that he has changed before he would consider reinstating him.

Once the season begins, Vick may participate in all team activities except games, and Goodell said he would consider Vick for full reinstatement by Week 6 (Oct. 18-19). This is good news for Michael Vick and he deserves a second chance. I hope he has learned his lesson, changed his circle of friends and realize that he can be a better person as a result of this ordeal. I am sure PETA will follow him all over the place, but he can weather that storm as well.

The announcement came after a busy first week of freedom for Vick, who met with union leaders and Goodell on consecutive days last week. His 23-month federal sentence ended when an electronic monitor was removed from his ankle early on July 20 at his home in Hampton, Va.