Michael Vick Can’t Work At Starbucks, But He Is Reinstated To The NFL

Michael Vick, NFL star and dog murderer, was released from jail and has been reinstated to the NFL on a probationary basis. We know people who have been denied an application at friggin’ Starbucks for having a criminal record, but Captain Dogkiller gets to play in the NFL.While some might say that people deserve a second chance, the question is what kind of statement is this sending to Americans where an Ex-con can’t vote but he can get paid millions to play football? [Ed: Hello? That football is more important than voting, duh.]

Michael Vick was on top of the world just a short time ago as a superstar playing for the Atlanta Falcons. Vick was talented, (really talented), and was considered one of the best players in the game. He was super rich, super cool, and could do no wrong…until…He got caught running an interstate dog fighting ring. Vick was making mad bank gambling on these dog fights while keeping the animals in terrible conditions and profiting of their deaths. After he was caught, the media backlash against Vick was strong and swift. He was torn apart in sports and non-sports news, talk radio, and ESPN who were unequivocal in their condemnation of Vick’s crimes. The Humane Society, PETA, and other animal rights groups picketed his trial and called him a monster.

So now he’s out of jail, a free agent, and flat broke as his money was used to for legal fees, fines, and to care for the dogs that survived. He has contacted the Humane Society and plans on making commercials against dog fights. No team has picked him up and on Week 6 of the season the NFL will consider whether or not they will fully reinstate him. They will be working with outside agencies like the Humane Society and his probation officer to make sure Vick stays on the straight and narrow. So, is this a genuine desire on his part to turn over a new leaf, or just a cynical ploy to make himself look better to team management? Probably it’s bullshit.

Vick is now an Ex-con, a convicted felon with a permanent record for illegal gambling, racketeering, and animal cruelty.  Ex-cons like Vick are ineligible for bank loans, voting, and many other services. It is a way to punish the felon even after he has served his sentence. If Vick is picked up by a team he will be in a better position than another felon who would be lucky to get a job at Walmart. He will make millions, and possibly be able to repair his reputation, while living a life much like the one he led before (but with less dog blood.) The NFL is sending a dangerous message by reinstating Vick, saying to America that felons, crooks, illegal gamblers, and dog killers have a place in the National Football League. Vick should not be above the law nor should he be rewarded for “trying” to be a decent human being. A lifetime ban would send the message that the NFL will not tolerate their players committing crime. If he can’t vote or work at Starbucks, he shouldn’t be able to play football.