Will Michael Vick Play in the NFL Again?

He asked for leniency in his sentencing. He said he's not the man he's been made out to be. Yet for Michael Vick it meant little. This week a judge sentenced him to nearly 2 years behind bars. Once considered one of the greatest athletes in the NFL, now many are wondering if Vick will ever play professional football again. Can he still play in the league after serving nearly two years in prison? Here are some thoughts to ponder:

Vick's attitude. Two years behind bars is a long time. Michael Vick will have to maintain some sort of physical condition while behind bars if he hopes to play pro ball once out of prison. Perhaps an even bigger obstacle will be Michael's mindset.

Will football even matter to him after two years behind bars? Will he still have the desire to play? The walls of prison can change people. It will be very interesting to see Vick's state after two years behind bars. This even more so, considering his admission to battling depression and marijuana addiction.

The Falcons outlook. The Atlanta Falcons will still have control over Vick and his contract when he comes out of jail. The Falcons decision on what to do with Michael may very well depend on the state of their team at that time. If the Falcons are able to find another guy who they think is their 'franchise' quarterback, they may have little interest in keeping Vick. If not, they may be willing to give this once talented athlete, a chance at playing again.

Another City. If the Falcons were to let Vick go, how would another city feel about giving him a chance? Would they be accepting? People are generally forgiving, but can they over look his dog fighting troubles long enough to give him a chance at playing. If you were to ask today, I don't think many teams could overlook his troubles. Will two years behind bars change their minds?

Is Vick a real quarterback? Let's face it. Michael Vick has not been praised for his ability to throw the football. What has made him good, is his ability to use his legs and athleticism to make plays in the open field. When he gets out of prison he will be nearly 30. He will have not played professional ball in two years. Even if he stays in good shape, he will not be quite the athlete he once was. Will a professional team consider what he can do as a true in the pocket quarterback? It's hard to see teams exactly lining up to give him that chance.

The road back to professional football, is not a straight one for Micheal Vick. Perhaps not all hope is lost, however it will be no easy journey. One can only hope he will be an improved person, after his time behind bars.