NFL

Michael Vick Re-Signs With Nike, Rejuvenation Tour Comes Full Circle

Though certainly not the most significant trouble Michael Vick brought on himself by participating in dog fighting, the loss of lucrative endorsements – including a partnership with Nike – was a major development nonetheless. He went from being one of the most marketable athletes in America to radioactive in almost no time at all, and at the time, it was hard to imagine him making a comeback 1) on the field; and 2) with the public.

Well, you know all about what Vick did with the Eagles last season, and now, another piece of the Vick redemption puzzle is filled in: he’s back with Nike. CNBC’s Darren Rovell reported earlier today the two sides worked out a deal (again), and Nike spokesman Derek Kent said the following:

“Michael acknowledges his past mistakes. We do not condone those actions, but we support the positive changes he has made to better himself off the field.”

Not exactly a statement brimming with confidence and positivity, but at this point, that hardly matters – Nike had enough confidence in Vick to bring him back into the fold, and that’s significant. Clearly they feel he’s made enough strides that people will see him endorsing a product and not only not be disgusted, but see it as a positive. Even one year ago, that would have been tough to fathom.

It’s also worth pointing out that Vick’s people apparently thought they had a deal with Nike in late 2009, but Nike quickly put the kibosh on that rumor. Clearly, though, the company hadn’t given up all hope, and whether you take the optimistic view (a great American story of redemption) or the cynical one (Vick was one good season away from being a good person), Vick’s comeback story is remarkable. Now, Nike just better hope he can keep it going.