Speaking of trials.  It looks like marginal/mercurial NFL quarterback Michael Vick is going to miss training camp.  Monday, US District Cout Judge Henry Hudson dropped the gavel on Vick with a 23 month stay in the Federal Penitentiary.  Though not the maximum, Hudson’s ruling is definitely on the severe side, and when combined with what might be subsequent punishment doled out by the Commonwealth of Virginia, creates some doubt as to whether or not Vick will be given the opportunity to resume his playing career.  A best case scenario could see a 29 year old Vick on the field in time for the 2009 season, while the worst case puts him at 30 years old and 3 years removed from competitive football in 2010.  All of this, of course, would depend upon the NFL’s willingness to reinstate Vick.

Hudson cited Vick’s own conduct in the months leading to the hearing as a major factor in the severity of his ruling.  Specifically, Vick apparently lied to Federal agents about his role in the execution of several dogs - Vick’s story was contradicted by two of his business partners - and his continued use of ‘The Marijuana’ - Vick has failed a Federal drug test, claiming self medication for clinical depression. 

Public impressions of the ruling have varied somewhat.  While most seem content to attack Vick with the special zest reserved for celebrities and those who should have known better, there have also been the usual claims of upbringing and bad society as contributing factors.

Rather than beat a dead horse - or dog in this instance - I find myself flipping through stat pages and wondering whether we’ll ever have the chance to find out what all of the fuss was about.  I am no Vick Hater.  I get the highlights, the big win in Green bay, I’ve watched Sportscenter before and can understand the appeal of a man whose talents tend towards the spectacular.  With all of that said, we’re still talking about af airly marginal upgrade over Joe Harrington through the air, and a guy good for as many turnovers as touchdowns running the ball.

I guess I will remember Michael Vick - if this is in fact the end of his 7 year career - for always being ready to turn the corner.  It was always the next head coach, injury free season, West Coast Offense or some previously undiscovered tweak to unlock the limitless potential of his game.  Instead, Vick never trended, good or bad, unless you count the contract numbers.

The man leaving the league to serve hard time is, in many ways, the same man who entered it.  At 27, that man might be a prospect, at 30 he’ll be much closer to washed up.  Still, in a league content to wait upon Eli Manning and Rex Grossman there will be someone willing to give the man a shot.  Felon or otherwise, Vick will return to the league one Vinny Testeverde coronary away from a starting role.