The speculation can cease – Michael Vick is back in the NFL.
Let the speculation begin.
Vick was conditionally reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday after serving 18 months in jail for operating a dog fighting ring. The former Atlanta Falcons QB must first serve a five-game regular season suspension before being allowed to play full time, though he will be allowed to participate in two preseason games along with practices, team meetings and workouts.
That is, if someone will sign him.
That’s where the renewed speculation comes in. Several teams have said they don’t want the NFL's most famous convict on their roster, namely the Giants, Jets and Cowboys. Same goes for the Falcons, who released Vick in June.
You can bet though, that Vick won’t be commanding anywhere near the 10-year, $130 million deal he threw away previously while with Atlanta.
According to a report on ESPN.com, the delay in allowing Vick to return was more to give him his best chance to prepare to make his return to NFL action, rather than to punish him.
"I have thought about every alternative, but I think this gives him the best chance for success," Goodell said. "We are not looking for failure here. We are looking to see a young man succeed."
One sportsbook had odds posted on where Vick might wind up this season, including the CFL at about 6-1 odds. Those numbers have since been taken down and we’ll keep you posted if any more pop up.
Where do you think Vick will end up? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.