Quarterback Michael Vick has a unique perspective on life that has helped him deal with his new role on the Eagles. After being away from the game for two years due to his imprisonment, Vick is appreciative for any opportunity, even if it's now being the scout team quarterback helping the team prepare for its final two games of the season.
"I can't be upset or be disgruntled by anything that happens," Vick said in his first interview since suffering a concussion Nov. 11 against Dallas. "It's just a blessing to be back and playing football from where I came from and the opportunities that I've had for the last three or four years."
This certainly wasn't the way Vick thought that the season would unfold. After a 3-1 start, the Eagles lost five straight games with him under center. Vick has completed 58.5 percent of his passes for 2,165 yards with 12 total touchdowns and nine interceptions this season. He has also lost five fumbles.
Vick said that he was initially injured on a scramble in the second quarter of that game against Dallas. He stayed in for one more play and was knocked down by linebacker Ernie Sims.
Not all of the team's problems this season fall at Vick's feet. The team has lost four of five without him in the lineup. Vick understands that in his position as the quarterback he's going to get the lion's share of the blame and accepts it.
"I think as a team we had a lot of things we needed to work on. We needed to improve week in and week out and that's what makes a championship football team. I think as players and as coaches everybody has to understand that and be on board. Of course being the quarterback, you're going to get the blame and I accept it even though it's tough," Vick said.
"It was a lot of hardships this year not only for me, but as a locker room because we wanted to win. And when you don't win, we know what comes along with it. I'm proud of the guys because they kept their heads held up high and I've kept my head up. We've continued to try to make strides in whatever way we can and get wins. The one thing I'll say is we'll fight until the end."
It's ironic that Vick had an opportunity to gain the Eagles' starting job in 2010 because of a concussion to Kevin Kolb only to lose the starting job in similar fashion two years later. However, head coach Andy Reid named Nick Foles the starter for the remainder of the year in large part because of the need to see what the rookie quarterback could offer for the future.
"It's just not the ideal situation right now in the way things are," Vick said. "I have to accept my role, accept it like a man and continue to find positives out of it."
Vick is unsure what the future in Philadelphia holds for him. A four-time Pro Bowl quarterback, Vick insists that at 32 years old he still has plenty of quality football in him. However, his immediate focus is on helping the team close out the season on a positive note.
"I just feel like I have a lot of football left to play. I have a lot left in my tank," Vick said. "I'm enjoying the game. I feel fresh. As of right now, I have to continue to help this football team win these last two games and the future will take care of itself."
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