| Vick, who was once, one of the highest paid and | | | | million in previously paid bonuses. Moreover, is |
| best profile players in the N.F.L., will lose out the | | | | probably that no merchant company will touch |
| best years of his career after being sentenced to | | | | him ever to promote their product. |
| 23 months in prison due to a dog fighting felony. | | | | Vick apologized to the court and his family |
| The 27-years-old Falcons' quarterback who had a | | | | members, who along with other supporters - |
| $130 million contract and a quite lucrative | | | | most of them fans - who were present in the |
| endorsement deal has now been suspended | | | | courtroom. But for the judge about to decide |
| indefinitely from professional football. | | | | Vick's fate, those words were not enough. |
| Despite the early admission of the guilt, a public | | | | In regards to the incident, U.S. Attorney Chuck |
| regret and the participation in an animal sensitivity | | | | Rosenberg added "This was an efficient, |
| training course; Vick was denied an "acceptance | | | | professional who thorough investigation exposed a |
| of responsibility" credit which will reduce his | | | | seamy side of our society…I trust Mr. |
| sentence. Apparently, Michael was more directly | | | | Vick learned important lessons and that his |
| involved than he admitted and also tested positive | | | | admission of guilt will speed his rehabilitation." |
| for marijuana use violation of the terms set for | | | | On the other hand, animal rights groups' |
| his release. | | | | representatives attending the sentencing |
| However, due to federal procedures for good | | | | applauded the judge's decision. According to them |
| behavior, Vick's sentence could end as early as | | | | "The 23 month prison sentence imposed on |
| the 2009 summer meaning he could eventually | | | | Monday was harsh yet appropriate for the case". |
| play that season. Even though, he is expected to | | | | Vick's future in football is now in doubt. The NFL |
| lose millions he would have earned in salary as well | | | | declined comments after the sentencing, saying |
| as endorsements in 2008; the Atlanta Journal | | | | that Vick's case would be "reviewed at the |
| Constitution estimated that Vick has in fact | | | | appropriate time." The verdict definitely comes in |
| incurred financial losses of $142 million, including | | | | dismay of his family, teammates and also the |
| $71 million in salary earnings from the Falcons, $50 | | | | fans who have been emotionally stroke by |
| million in endorsement income and nearly $20 | | | | Michael's career over the years. |