What is Next for Michael Vick?

Since his release from prison Michael Vick has kept a relatively low profile, as
he well should. But keeping a low profile doesn't stop the rumors from flying as
to what he will do next.

It has been recently speculated that Vick may sign with a team in the newly
formed UFL. Although this may seem the perfect thing to do for a player who
hasn't touched a football in nearly two years, there is the risk of getting
injured which would hamper or end his bid to return to the NFL.

That's right. NFL.

Don't kid yourselves, there is a fire brewing in Vick that won't be quelled
until he knows if he can make it all the way back. As a former athlete, I know,
he wants to see if he still can run with the big dogs.

If he does try to make it back to the NFL, there are some challenges he faces.

For one, the game has changed since Vick last put on a uniform. Today's NFL
quarterback is more of a pocket passer, only running when absolutely necessary.
Michael Vick, even in his best days was a run-first, throw-second quarterback.
Staying in the pocket was always his weakness. Today he will have to stay, which
brings up my next point.

Although he may not believe it, defensive players are bigger, stronger and
faster than they were just two short years ago when Vick left the game. Many
quarterbacks who used to be able to outrun defensive lineman now find themselves
the meat part of a lineman sandwich.

Defensive coverages have become more complex. With verteran defensive
coordinators like Dick Labaugh of the Pittsburgh Steelers designing cleverly
disguised defensive schemes, Vick's job has gotten a lot tougher.

Then there is the money. Vick owes millions to creditors who are chomping at the
bit for him to make some money. It is reported that he could make in the
neighborhood of $690,000 in the UFL which would be the higher end of the salary
scale. Some have said because of the injury risk, he should sit out this year if
he is seriously thinking of making a comeback bid to the NFL while others say he
should take the money and the opportunity to play again to get himself ready for
a comeback.

No matter what he does, one thing is for sure, Michael Vick will be in the news
somehow. You can count on it.