Michael Vick: The Newest Philadelphia Eagle

Quarterback Michael Vick has signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, with an option for the second year. The first year of the deal is worth $1.6 million, with an option for the second year at $5.2 million. Vick could earn an additional $3 million, if incentives are achieved.

The 29-year-old Vick has not played in the NFL since 2006, when he was convicted for conspiracy and running an illegal dogfighting operation. Vick served 23 months in federal prison, and was suspended indefinitely by commissioner Roger Goodell and the league. After serving his time in prison and home confinement, Goodell partially reinstated Vick, after seeing the progress he has made in his life. The reinstatement allowed Vick to sign with the Eagles.

Under the partial reinstatment that Vick received by Goodell, Vick is allowed to immediately start working out with the team, and attending all the practices. Vick may also play in the final two preseason games with the Eagles. Once the season begins, Vick may continue to participate in all team activities, but is not allowed to play in the games, until Week 6, when Goodell is expected to fully reinstate Michael Vick.

Donovan McNabb, who got a raise in his contract this year, is still expected to be the starting quarterback with the Eagles. McNabb has been a supporter of Vick, and is glad that he is a teammate now. McNabb spoke with the media today, after learning of the news: "I pretty much lobbied to get him here. I believe in second chances and what better place to get a second chance than here with this group of guys. He's no threat to me, not for Kolb. We had the opportunity to add another weapon to our offense."

Vick was the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. Vick played five seasons with the Falcons, and was selected to the Pro Bowl, three times, in 2002, 2004, and 2005. The Eagles will be Vick's second NFL team.

The move to the Eagles was a surprise to many, as Philadelphia was one of the 26 teams in the league, who said that they would not sign Vick. Plans must of changed, and Vick is expected to be the backup quarterback on the team. The Eagles also have Kevin Kolb, who suffered a minor injury recently and was the backup QB to McNabb before Vick came along, and veteran A.J. Feely, who won't be seeing a lot, if any, playing time this season.

The Eagles are still looking for their first Super Bowl in their franchise history. Philadelphia has been to two Super Bowls, in 1980 and 2004, losing in both occasions. During McNabb's campaign as QB, he has led the Eagles to five NFC championship games, and one Super Bowl appearance.