Are We Not Human Do We Not Bleed ? We Do Have Emotions As Well …..

Off late I’m of the opinion that the law as it stands is an ass. Especially when it comes to its dealing with celebrities and athletes. Now I’m not prepared to use race as an aspect of making a case for any perceived argument at all.

Chicago Blackhawks' Patrick Kane speaks after his arraignment in Buffalo City Court in Buffalo New York. Kane is accused of beating up a cab driver over a fare dispute. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ David Duprey ....................

But as of late , I’ve come to the conclusion that unless the district attorneys, who handle many of the legal issues that they’re confronted with. Do so with more zealousness and show the public that they mean business. Then the public will continue to have little faith in the legal system of this country.

Plaxico Burress seen here leaving the Manhattan Criminal Court on Thursday having agreed to a two year sentence on a weapon's charge. Apart from the two year sentence the player will also have to undergo two years of supervised probation in accordance with his plea agreement. Had he gone to trial and been found guilty. He'd have face anywhere between 5 1/2 to 15 years as mandated by the state of New York. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Seth Wenig ........................

I say this merely not only because I now work alongside members of the legal profession. Though I’m not involved in the field of criminal law. My field, is within the corporate law and that of fiance and international banking. However, the legal firm that I am employed by ,is a full service law firm, that’s nationally recognized and has offices, here in North America . As well as in Latin America, Europe and the Far East.

With all that has happened as of late within the NFL and NHL , concerning a number of athletes. I’m of the opinion that the hierarchy of all of the four major professional sports’ governing bodies have to be firm when it comes to dealing with their members and their apparent legal transgressions. I know that the case has to be made “….innocent until proven guilty.” But at what expense to the integrity of the very sport that the fans and members of the public seemingly take an interest in ?

Pepperdine University law professor and ESPN legal analyst Roger Cossack . picture appears courtesy of epsn.go.com/archives @ copyrighted material All rights reserved .............

Last night whilst briefly watching an item on ESPN . Where an interview was taking place with respected former criminal attorney Roger Cossack . Who also happens to be the network’s legal analyst . Cossack had the temerity to suggest that the two year sentence given to former New York Giants’ player, Plaxico Burress was ‘too harsh and that jail should be for violent felons ‘ Somehow , the absurdity of Cossack’s statement was far too bewildering for me comprehend. So I can only surmise either that Cossack didn’t equate that Burress’ crime was at all serious.

Plaxico Burress went into a nightclub , having crossed state lines with an unlicensed and concealed weapon. Wherein, he not only endangered himself but the patrons of the club who were in attendance. If Cossack can’t comprehend that, then he ought no to be involved in the legal profession at all. And as a tenured professor , teaching law and the media at Pepperdine University , I’d like to think that he’s offering his students much more insight as to the legal profession. Rather than offering an opinion that’s not worth the paper it’s written on , or being vocal with it, to begin with.

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and the Associated Press:

Blackhawks’ Kane pleads not guilty in Buffalo

By John Wawrow AP Sports Writer

Buffalo,NY-(AP) After reiterating his innocence following a brief court appearance ,Chicago Blackhawks’ star forward Patrick Kane became emotional as he walked to his lawyer’s office Thursday.

Flanked by his parents, Patrick Sr. and Donna Kane and attorney Paul Cambria , Kane became teary-eyed as a reporter asked about the emotional toll he’s under facing misdemeanor assault, theft and harassment charges that he and his cousin beat up a cab driver over a fare.

__________________________________________________________
In order to read this AP article in its entirety just click on the text link shown above.
__________________________________________________________

Now far be it for me to suggest, that it’s not just the legal profession and ruling bodies of the four major sports that ought to be held accountable. But I do also feel that the athletes themselves , also have to held to a certain standard, as to their conduct. They are continually in the public eye, even when away from the field of play.What they choose to do, behind closed doors , beyond public scrutiny, is their own business. But once it takes place within the public domain then it’s completely another matter. And therein lies the dilemma that faces MLB , NBA , NHL and NFL . When it is appropriate for them to take action against a player who runs afoul of the law ? Are they overstepping their boundaries when they seek to suspend a player prior to due legal process takes its course ? Or are they in-fact acting in good faith when they seek to impart their own action in the form of a suspension ?

DeMaurice Smith Executive Director of the NFLPA. Smith who assumed the position after the death of his predecessor Gene Upshaw. He was elected to the position by the board members of the Players' Association. Smith was a corporate litigation attorney for the DC law firm Patton Boggs. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Phillip Mitchell .............................

As we all know of late , the National Football League has faced its own PR nightmare . From the Burress affair , to Donte’ Stallworth’s trial , to the recent release of Michael Vick from a federal prison , for his involvement in the criminal enterprise of dog-fighting and illegal gambling. And while much has been made of their acts of contrition. There is the belief , that the players in question are merely saying all of the right things in order to seek the public’s empathy and forgiveness. Make of it what you will. One can either choose to take them at their word or you can choose to think that they’re just as I’d alluded to they’re saying all of the right thing for their own reasons.

With the impending collective bargaining agreement about to rescinded and opted out of by the NFL at the end of the 2010-11 season. The NFLPA and their Executive Director DeMaurice Smith feels emboldened with regard to the arbitrary actions of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell . The commissioner feels that is indeed his duty, to uphold the integrity of the game and the perceived image that the fans and public sees. And while no can deny that Smith may well have a case as to questioning Goodell’s seemingly use as to his judgement when meting out punishment. That he feels appropriate, when the players have ran afoul the league’s conduct policy and that of the law.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell . The commissioner faces a great deal of contention as to his arbitrary authority concerning the suspensions of NFL players when it comes to the league's conduct policy. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Noah Rogers ....................

Smith seeks to go in, perhaps with both guns blazing, as he seeks to usurp some of Goodell’s powers, when it comes to this specific issue , concerning his members. That being said, Smith has done nothing to suggest that he’s overly concerned by the conduct of his members.
He’s yet to make a public statement concerning either Donte’ Stallworth’s actions or that of Plaxico Burress. The only public statement he has actually made concerns the return of Vick to the NFL arena. And the mere fact that he’s happy to welcome player back into the NFL fold.

On appearance that may well seem somewhat disingenuous on Smith’s part. But the Players’ Association has never been known to act with any real responsibility as to its image. It’d appear that its greatest concern is that of, the amount of money it seemingly appears to be in conflict with the NFL over , concerning the revenues gleaned as to their overall operations. Something that Smith has in common with his predecessor , Gene Upshaw .

Whatever may well take place when the two sides meet. There is in-fact a good case to be made by either side. Goodell, has to show more transparency as to his dealings with these issues. And at the same time we have to see Smith, himself , become more proactive when incidents such as this arise concerning his members , the players. It makes no sense for him to continue to remain silent on many of these matters. On appearance alone, it suggests that he in-fact condones the conduct of the players. And Goodell for his part , ought to be moving towards the setting up of a panel that encompasses either an impartial board of intermediaries that in effect rules over the findings after player’s misconduct. Or possibly a board that seats current and former players. With there being legal counsel , to assist in any legal matters that arise. It shouldn’t as such, be left to Goodell alone to be judge and jury when it comes to meting out punishment to the players arbitrarily.

As it is , it often appears that the commissioner picks and chooses the battles he seeks to win and at the same time keep his own image in-tact . Albeit, that he feels that he’s doing this all for the greater good , in terms of the game’s image and its integrity. But as we all know this may well be only a means to an end as to the renegotiating of the collective bargaining agreement. The concerns that the fans may well have in all of this won’t be of any concern to the NFL or the union counterpart. If anything it’ll be more about the image of both parties and who comes out on top at the end of the day.

And if you think this concerns only the NFL. Then think again, as the three other major professional sports and their governing bodies have the very same problem.

Vick Does Deserve A Second Chance

As the football season draws near certain juices begin to flow within your veins, Training camp is in full affect, a few preseason games have been played—and Madden NFL ‘10 has finally hit store shelves (although the last two installments were a disaster).

The biggest and latest news coming out of the NFL last week was the signing of fallen quarterback Michael Vick.

As you know by now the Philadelphia Eagles took a big chance in signing the maligned former pro bowl quarterback. The deal was not an economic risk- Vick’s  salary wasn’t enough to put a dent in the Eagles salary cap space, however it was a HUGE risk with certain fans, sponsors and not least of which animal lovers the nation over.

I myself am a huge animal lover; I’ve had pets all my life and treat them like family. I’m the kind of guy who will even try not to kill insects unless I absolutely have to (except for ants and flies, those two annoying species have to go!) That being said however, I do believe that Michael does deserve a second chance. One of my best friends thinks that celebrities shouldn’t get second chances; in fact he said, “If it were a cable guy he would still be in prison.”

This may or may not be true, however I think the fact that he is a celebrity may have hurt him a little bit since dog fighting was not something most North Americans were aware of, and when this came to light they used Michael Vick as the posterchild.

The fact remains that Michael has in my mind paid his debt to society. Vick has spent the past two years in prison–forget the fact that he missed the last two NFL seasons, and forget that he lost all of his endorsements and millions of dollars. Michael lost a lot more than that; Michael was away from his children and family for two years.

I don’t have any children of my own, but can you imagine being away from your young children for a month? I think just one week would hurt most of us. Michael has also had to go through the embarrassment as a fallen disgraced celebrity that a normal Joe most likely would not have had to face.

I’m very happy that a team took a chance on this man–I use the word man because in the end, that is all he is. As a man, he can never be perfect. Celebrity or not, Vick is a human- prone to all of the same temptations we all are. Because he isn’t perfect he made a big mistake.

Who among us hasn’t made mistakes? I’ve made some dumb mistakes throughout my life. I still make stupid mistakes—none as egregious as what he has done obviously, but I learn from each and every one. I like to think that each day that passes by I mature more and more, and I truly believe that is what is happening. I also truly believe that’s what has happened to Michael Vick.

There’s nothing like a stint in prison for two years and a dramatic fall from grace like Michael has experienced to get you going on the right path. He has given what appear to be honest apologies, and has rotted for the last 2 years in prison.

Given all of this, how can we truly know if Michael has learned anything from this and matured as a man if we don’t give him a second chance. The language in this sentence is also important. Nothing Vick can do will make him deserve an extra chance- such opportunities must be given. The question then truly becomes not whether he deserves to play but rather how much punishment is enough. He will always have the stigma of this horrendous episode to carry around with him, and has two years of incarceration to show. The legal system set the amount of time they felt he needed to be punished and he has served every second of it. The primary purpose (at least in theory) of prisons are rehabilitation. What better way to see if the system works then by allowing Vick to return to the life he lived and judge him by his subsequent actions?

The man has done his time, and paid his debt to society. So we should give him this opportunity to better himself in the community as well as on the field, and let him answer to the one judge that matters, God.

The man is still relatively young and I don’t believe his skills have eroded as much as people say; it should be exciting seeing number 7 back out there on an NFL field making defenses look silly. Thank God football is back.

A very late QB Friday

This was the hardest decision of my life…choosing who to pick for QB Friday. I was at a loss. It was either going to be Alex Mortensen being released by the Titans or Mike Vick signing with the Eagles. Obviously, Alex had the early edge. But, I decided to mix things up and go with the lesser story – and that was Vick returning to the league. Call me crazy, but I did.

Nah, I’m just messin’ with ya! But seriously, Alex Mortensen – ESPN’s Chris Mortensen’s son – was released by the Titans after playing only 3 snaps in the HOF game. Anyway, it’s obvious that Vick was going to this weeks Quarterback. I already expressed how interested I was in the story on bleedeaglesgreen.com. FYI, it was a lot of interest.

Just know this, I’m not a Vick hater. I’m a Wildcatlover. And I still have memories of DeSean throwing to the wrong team in the Wildcat. I like the Eagles, so I don’tlike DeSean Jackson throwing to the wrong team.

You know, in the more serious look of things – everyone deserves a second chance. Yes, EVERYONE. He’s done his time and should be coming back.

Now as for the NFL view of things, you HAVE to like this. Vick was the most exciting player to watch ever. He was awesome. He was the Wildcat before the Wildcat. Not saying he could be that again, just sayin’ he was. He brought a new dimension to the game and he’s going to change the Wildcat. A whole new playbook will be drawn up for Vick. It’ll be a playbook that opens up the careers for players like Pat White, Vince Young, and maybe even Tim Tebow.

Like I said in the Philly blog, I don’t believe he’s in any condition to play right now. He’ll need to start working up the ladder, and he’ll have to know his role. He won’t take McNabb’s job. They’ll have to add a position to the depth chart, “WILDCAT.” And that’ll be Vick’s role.

You know what I wonder? I wonder if it has been Philly all along. You know what mean? I’m talking about when Vick said he was close to signing about three weeks ago. Something in my head says it’s not, but there’s no way for us to know. I think it’s a good question, though.

Usually, this is the part of the segment that I ask you an opinion question – but I don’t have one. I have some questions but none of them are any good. Guess I’ll have to generic:

Did Vick get paid to much? The deal says he gets 1.6 for first year then he has the option at a second year for 5.2 million.

You know, I was a little surprised. He is getting an option at 5.2 million. The number seems a little high for me. Maybe I’m not thinking clearly. But honestly, there’s a chance he may never be good again. Yet, you give him the choice at getting 5.2 million in a year. I don’t know, I just wasn’t expecting the payment to be in the 5 mill area.

So, that was this weeks QB Friday, hope to see you next week!

PS: Good luck Vick!

Jake Delhomme You’ll Be The Death Of Me And You’re Killing John Fox.

They say you ought not to put much store in the preseason games within the NFL . That being said , having caught a brief glance of the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants, gave me every reason to believe that this will be a long and arduous season for the Panthers. Much of their malaise stems from the mere fact that their quarterback , Jake Delhomme has regressed as a starter. And whilst, there was seemingly talk that the organization may well have been shown some interest in Michael Vick . Nothing ever came of it .

Leger Douzable of the Giants deflects the ball out of the hands of Panthers' backup quarterback Hunter Cantwell. It was one several turnovers by the Panthers during the game that resulted in a 24-17 loss to the New York Giants. Cantwell and starting quarterback Jake Delhomme didn't at all fare well during the preaseason game played at the Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .................

At best I , would consider Delhomme to be a moderately serviceable quarterback. But nowhere near, what I’d seek in a starter. He’s slow and has no real pocket presence , much less a strong arm. Somehow, within the offensive scheme conjured up by the team’s coach John Fox and his offensive coaching staff. The franchise has been moderately successful with Delhomme at the helm. That being said whether or not it was rust or lack of timing on Jake Delhomme’s part in the preseason game against the Giants. His performance in the game , albeit for no more than a couple of series. It can be best described as being pitiful ! The resulting 24-17 loss to the Giants, can’t have given the Panthers any faith in their starting quarterback. And I shudder to think how Fox, himself , may have felt after the player’s performance.

Josh McCown of the Carolina Panthers attempts a pass in the preseason game against the New York Giants played at Giants' Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jim McIsaac ..................

And when one looks at the team’s roster and the quarterback’s within the fold. It leaves a great deal to be desired. Asides ,from Delhome , the likes of Josh McCown and Matt Moore and Hunter Cantwell , aren’t exactly the names that’d come to mind, or that one would consider to be earth shattering, in terms of a backup. But then again , much of that is all about perception, as they say. Somehow , I don’t even feel that either of those players will make the grade . Should they be placed in the position where they’d have to take over from Delhomme. And that’s why it’ll be imperative first of all for Jake Delhomme to remain healthy. But above all , consistent in his play , if the team are to fare well this upcoming season within the NFC South . And more importantly throughout their entire NFL regular season schedule. A playoff berth isn’t beyond this team if they play up to their full potential. But based upon the evidence thus far and in particular the play of Delhomme. It’s hard to see what positives one can hope to take out of this, at this moment in time.

Matt Moore (3) of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass during the preseason game against the New York Giants. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .................

Defensively , this team can be as good as they come . Especially when they apply themselves to the task. And on the defensive end, in Julius Peppers . They may well have one of the very best run stoppers out there. Peppers is ably assisted by stalwarts such as Chris Gamble , Tyler Brayton, Nate Salley and second year player Nick Hayden. In this particular aspect the Panthers are capable of holding their own. But again for there to be any success with regard to the defense. Then the players will have to also expect some vast contributions from not only their seasoned veterans. But also their young draftees.

Panthers' coach John Fox watches from the sidelines as his team faces the New York Giants. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo / Kathy Willens ...................

The Panthers’ offense has never really been in doubt. And with Steve Smith . They may well possess one of the more creative and dynamic wide receivers in the game. And with the return of seasoned veteran Muhsin Muhammad back with the team. The double threat posed by both does give the offense an added edge. But it’d also be remiss to discount the team’s running attack. That’s led by Johnathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. The double tandem formation , that’s now seemingly becoming the norm ,for the vast majority of the teams around the NFL.

Panthers' starting quarterback Jake Delhomme attempts a pass during the preseason game against the New York Giants. Delhomme had a miserable start to the preseason in terms of his performance. He fumbled twice and completed only five of his seven attempts during the series he participated in. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .........................

With the rise in prominence of the NFC South and in particular the resurgence of the Atlanta Falcons under their young quarterback Matt Ryan . And the always dangerous New Orleans Saints - with the rebuilding project that’s now said to be be taking place with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers . It’s felt that the division ,for all sense and purpose will be a three horse race between the aforementioned teams. With the Buccaneers seated at the bottom of the table at the end of the regular season. This much is certain however, if the Panthers do fail. It won’t be for the lack of trying. As John Fox, is considered to be a hard task master amongst his peers around the league. That being said, it’ll be up to his starting quarterback Jake Delhomme to prove me wrong in my own suspicions as to how this team’ll fare.

Ahmad Bradshaw of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Carolina Panthers during the game. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jim McIsaac ........................

And as alluded to , as Jake Delhomme goes , so too will this team. Their fortunes lay in the fact that he’s going to have to perform way above par in his position as the team’s starting quarterback. If this team is at all to do well. Mediocrity on his part can no longer be tolerated by the Carolina Panthers’ fans, the team’s players and in particular their coach, John Fox. If things do head south , then we may well see Fox on the way out, as there’s likely to be a change in the coaching regime within the organization.

Press Coverage: 8/17/09

As the NFL’s regular season approaches, more and more stories emerge every day. Whether it be about a quarterback controversy, a team’s chances to succeed or a potential problems down the road, there is seemingly always something to talk about when it comes to the NFL. Twice a week, this post will look at the three biggest headlines of the day. I’ll give some background on the story and also provide my opinion. Here we go for August 17:

1. Donovan McNabb addressed the Philadelphia media today after practice, and discussed candidly the signing of quarterback Michael Vick. McNabb had lots to say on the subject, the most interesting of which is that he first broached the subject of the Eagles signing Vick in July. There had been some reports in the days after Vick was signed that McNabb was not happy with the move and felt threatened by Vick’s presence. McNabb seemed to debunk those rumors today:

“I’ve been through many situations here throughout my career when they’ve cheered for the backup,” McNabb said. “It happened with Garcia. It happened with (Kevin) Kolb. It happened with A.J. (Feeley). I’m used to that.”

McNabb certainly has been through a lot during his career in Philly. Fans have never seemed to appreciate all he has accomplished, and the presence of Vick won’t provide a dynamic that he hasn’t experienced before.

For the most part, McNabb was focused more on Vick’s personal well-being than what he can contribute to the Eagles on the football field. “I believe in second chances and I have strong faith in God that he forgives our sins,” said McNabb, a dog lover who owns two American bulldogs and a Belgian Malinois. “Yes, it was a bad thing and a malicious act, but somewhere in your heart, you have to have forgiveness.”

“I kind of can be a mentor to him, give him an opportunity to get his feet under him, get his life together,” McNabb said.

From a football perspective, how Vick is used will be interesting to watch. Since McNabb is entrenched as the team’s starting quarterback, Vick likely will be used in a wildcat role. Vick is one of the best athletes to have ever put on a football jersey, and even though he has missed two seasons, he still should have the ability to be a threat in certain situations.

2. Is Brett Fave coming back? Jay Glazer of FoxSports.com seems to think so. Glazer spoke with several unnamed Vikings players, one of whom thinks that the deal is “already done.”

When Favre told the Vikings a few weeks ago that he was staying retired, many believed him. He told ESPN that he couldn’t handle the mental and physical grind of an entire season, and people believed him. Favre has fooled fans before, and now he could be making yet another return to the league. It’s not a surprising development considering the Vikings still need a quarterback that can take them to the next level. In Friday’s preseason game against the Colts, Sage Rosenfels got the start and went 10-of-13 for 91 yards. Yes, he was accurate, but he couldn’t convert on the deep plays that change the momentum in football games. Favre can do that, which is why the Vikings still want him.

Even though Favre has missed vital training camp time, it’s not like he needs to learn a new offense. The Vikings run a similar offense to the one Favre ran for the bulk of his career in Green Bay, so there wouldn’t be a steep learning curve. The main thing that hurt Favre when he came to the Jets last year was that he didn’t know the offense. That won’t be a problem in Minnesota.

While the Vikings have been chastised in some ways for their continued pursuit of Favre, you can’t blame Brad Childress for trying to make the team better. After all, aren’t coaches supposed to do all in their power to improve their football team? If Childress feels this is the move that will take the Vikings deep in the playoffs, he should do it.

Hopefully, Favre will address his intentions shortly. If he plans on playing for the Vikings this season, it would be best for him to let everyone know, because I don’t know if I can take much more of the Favre drama.

3. According to FanHouse.com, Tom Cable punched an assistant on August 5. Randy Hanson, a defensive coach for the Raiders, was the man on the receiving end of the punch. Hanson reportedly didn’t see the punch coming, as he was in engaged in a conversation with defensive coordinator John Marshall when it occurred. The National Football Post first had the report, but did not name the coach who punched Hanson.

Hanson had to go to the hospital because his jaw was injured, and a police report was subsequently filed. Hanson refused to name the man who punched him, but FanHouse’s sources say that Cable was the man who delivered the blow.

The circumstances behind the punch are not yet known, but Cable could be facing criminal charges if Hanson tells the truth to police. Whether he does is in doubt, because he may fear that his job will be in jeopardy if he gives Cable up.

If this report turns out to be accurate, Cable should face some sort of punishment from the league and/or the Raiders. Punching an assistant coach is out-of-line, to say the least, and Cable must be made an example of. While I don’t think he should be suspended, I do think Cable should be fined for his actions.The Raiders almost have an obligation to punish Cable, because when a player punches a fellow player, a fine or suspension always seems to follow. Steve Smith of the Panthers punched teammate Ken Lucas during training camp last year, and Smith was subsequently suspended for the first two games of the season by the team. Coaches shouldn’t receive special treatment, and as a result Cable deserves to reprimanded for his conduct.

Come One , Come All , It’s The Michael Vick Traveling Circus

Come One , Come All , It’s The Michael Vick Traveling Circus

Well unless you’ve been asleep under a rock over the last 2 1/2 years. Then it’ll come as no surprise to you that Michael Vick has returned to the NFL . Yesterday, as only ESPN seems to know how to do. They broke the news that Vick had signed with the Philadeplhia Eagles . It is part of a 2 year deal for $7m . The deal pays Vick $1.5m over the first season and $ 5.5m over the second season- with a further $3m , in additional incentives. Now some may well say that this places added pressure on the incumbent quarterback, Donovan McNabb . And it has been suggested that it was actually McNabb who first proposed this to his coach, Andy Reid .

Vick and Reid at a press conference at the Nova Care Complex in Philadelphia that formally announces that the player has signed a two year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Larry French ................

With that in mind , this will no doubt give the franchise an added boost in terms of the interest that’ll be shown by the fans. But it’ll also place them front and center in terms of the continuing controversy that has surrounded the player and his past troubles. There’s no doubt that as dynamic a player that Vick is, the demand to see him on the field of play will be plentiful . And at the same time there’ll be vociferous fans out there who’ll be determined to show their opposition to this maneuver.That being said only time will tell how the player’ll will fare. From a financial aspect it doesn’t place a great deal on the franchise to begin with. But it may well put some added pressure not only McNabb to perform at his best. But it’ll also place a great deal of pressure on the backups A. J. Feeley and Kevin Kolb , to show that they’re worthy of being on the team’s roster. In all probability Vick won’t only be just used in the backup position. But also as a slot receiver or under some other premise as designated by Reid and his coaching staff.

Coach Andy Reid of the Philadelphia Eagles address members of the convened press to make the announcement that Michael Vick has been signed by the team and now becomes its newest member. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Larry French .................

Locally, within the city itself , the voices have been heard. There’ve been those in favor of the move. And there’ve been others who’ve shown their ire to the move by the Philadelphia Eagles. This all, had to have come with the blessing of the Eagles’ hierarchy of coach, Andy Reid and the owner Jeffrey Lurie and the franchise’s team president , Joe Banner . How this now, plays out as the season progresses , remains to be seen. The player for now will merely practice with the team and quite possibly play in one or two of the preseason games. As it is, the player won’t be able to participate in any regular season games, until game 6 of the regular season .As he’s still under suspension by the NFL.

A formal announcement is expected to be made by the team on Friday morning and one can expect the customary feeding frenzy by the press in covering the spectacle as it unfolds. That being said the player himself , can no doubt expect some vocal support and also a great deal of indifference by the fans, once he makes his physical entrance on the field of play for the very first time. Two years away, from the game and there’s bound to be some rust and a timing problem with the player. But that’s not what made Vick a major attraction when first introduced to the NFL. It was the fact that he could make the impossible at times seem easy. And the mere fact that with his explosiveness and athleticism , he wasn’t your prototypical quarterback. Now comes the hard part for the player ,it’ll be to reinvent himself not only as a player. But also in terms of his character. Which of above all, is what really matters as far as the player is concerned. And that too , of the NFL and league commissioner, Roger Goodell . Vick can ill afford to mess up this time around in any way. Another transgression either on, or off the field and he can kiss the resumption of his NFL career goodbye , once and for all. This is, the situation that Michael Vick now faces.

Vick and his mentor Tony Dungy look on as they both take questions from the convened press at the Eagles' facility in Philadelphia on Friday morning . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Matt Rourke ....................

It’s said that everyone is deserving of a second chance but one seriously doubts that a third or fourth chance will be forthcoming from the league or its rabid fans.Especially, should Vick ran afoul of the league or law once again . So make of it what you will, as the player re-enters the league and all of the privileges that he’s about to be afforded.

The Other Shoe Dropped And It’s Not All That Big It’s Merely Perception ………….

The Other Shoe Just Dropped And It’s Not All That Big It’s Merely The Perception

The MLB All Star Game of 2008 and in particular the Home Run Derby made a hero out of Josh Hamilton of the Texas Rangers . His problems have been well chronicled from his chronic alcohol and drug abuse . Hamilton, for all of his virtue, as a gifted player, who can hit with power, made what he says was an error in judgement.When he was caught in a local bar with several young females and strippers. Now bear this in mind , Hamilton is said to be a happily married man with a young family.

Josh Hamilton lets loose in the 2008 Home Run Derby at the Yankee Stadium in New York. The player though did not win the tournament , excited the crowd with his repertoire of explosive hitting , scoring 28 home runs in the opening round of the competition. picture appears courtesy of getty images / Mike Segar .........................

Now it begs the question after having undergone sobriety , wherein, the Rangers assisted the player by placing him in treatment for his substance abuse problems. I can only ask of the player , what the hell was he thinking ? Did it not occur to him that by putting himself in such a position, where he’d become vulnerable, to possibly resuming his drinking and the use of drugs, it would do him irreparable damage ?

Josh Hamilton at play with some females at a bar in Arizona . pictures appears courtesty of tmz.com copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ...............

It is this sort of notoriety and idiocy shown by today’s athletes that clearly indicates to us all that they obviously feel that ,they’re above the laws of the land.

Hamilton with his wife and children riding in a parade prior to the 2008 All Star game held in New York at Yankee Stadium. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul McMillan .........

_________________________________________________________

Hamilton by his own admission acted stupidly and irrationally. But once again who’s really to blame here ? Clearly it’s the player and once again no amount of apologies, either to the public or his family will negate or add any veracity to his act of contrition. He seeks the public’s empathy for his action , much as in the same way that Michael Vick and Donte’ Stallworth did for their asinine acts . We’re told that we ought to be a forgiving society ? Well I say, enough is enough ! It has to stop ! These are grown individuals and not children. Are we meant to treat them as such ?

Hamilton in a cap, is seen here in full swing, taking part in the festivities at a bar in Phoenix , Arizona . picture appears courtesy of tmz.com copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ..............

And for all of the apologists out there , who seek to absolve the likes of Vick , Stallworth and now Hamilton. Can we have some common sense , as to trying to making an argument here ? It is becoming asinine to suggest that these athletes are actually learning anything at all from their mistakes ! ith each and every action they seek the public’s empathy and we’re to believe that for all sense and purpose this action won’t at all be repeated again ? I know that Roger Goodell allegedly, has Vick and Stallworth on a tight leash. No pun intended , concerning Vick ! But it’s apparent that if you’re going to act like a child instead of behaving and acting responsibly. Then screw it , then you ought to be treated like a damn infant ! Prissy athletes who over indulge and continue to act like an ass ! Is there anything else that I’ve left out ?

Hamilton at a bar in Phoenix Arizona alongside some unknown females . The player allegedly having overcome alcohol and drug abuse fell off the sobriety wagon. He's since apologized to the Rangers' organization as well to the fans and above all to his family for his misdeeds. picture appears courtesy of tmz.com copyrighted material @ All rights reserved ......................

We Entertain And That’s All We’re Meant To Do Right ?

I’ve the utmost respect for ESPN’s Michael Smith as a journalist. He’s one of the few credible ones within the organization, that has some semblance of common sense and intelligence. However , with that in mind I found his pandering to the disgraced NFL player Donte’ Stallworth , somewhat misguided and self serving. Rather than conducting an interview that ought to have given us some insight into the player’s mindset as to the events leading up to this tragic accident.

Journalist Michael Smith of ESPN. The writer and reporter is a contributor on the station's magazine program E:60 as well as a featured contributor to the station's own magazine ESPN The Magazine. picture appeaers courtesy of espn.go.com / Richard Shaffer ...................

The interview as it was conducted seemingly , was more about seeking empathy for the player, who by his own admission made an error in judgement. To my mind it wasn’t an error in judgement. It was a personal choice made by a player who thought that he could circumvent the law by getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming an untold amount of alcohol and smoking some marijuana as well. If that doesn’t spell idiocy and to top it all a genuine contempt of the laws within the state of Florida . It clearly smacks of what we’ve all seen from a number of athletes who place themselves above the law. And who then seek the public’s sympathy as to their plight.This was made all the more easier , with which this interview by Smith who clearly obfuscated his responsibilities as not only a journalist but also a reporter. I suppose that once again this is the crasness we’ve come to expect from the sycophants there in Bristol, Connecticut !

When asked if he felt that the jail sentence given to him in the vehicular manslaughter of 59 year old, Mario Reyes, was appropriate. Stallworth’s response, in no uncertain terms tried to mitigate the fact bytrying to state that there were underlying circumstances that the legal system thought was fitting pertaining to his sentence. Be that as it may, Stallworth should consider himself considerably lucky . But much of the blame here, lies with the sheer ineptitude shown by the legal system within Miami Dade County . To merely sentence Stallworth to just 24 days in jail from a sentence of 30 days. I know that Stallworth has lost his driver’s license and also that he’ll be placed on 8 year’s probation along with two year’s community service. Clearly the scales of justice aren’t the same for you or I and those of the celebrity status. Money it appears can countermand everything ! And it certainly on appearance , makes a mockery of the so called justice system that this country so prides itself on.

Coming full circle with regard to Smith’s pampering of Stalworth and the interview conducted. As I’d stated, I felt that Smith didn’t serve his profession or that of his employer well with the public gleaned . If anything it clearly shows how out of touch ESPN as an allged sport’s broadcast unit has become. And that’s not merely on from a journalism standpoint but also from a formative news sandpoint as well. You’ve only got to witness the lengths that they’ll now go to in order to allegedly serve us up with a news sound byte.While I bear Stallworth no malice, I do feel that the player clearly doesn’t truly appreciate the ramification of his actions. Albeit, that he’s suspended indefinitely by Commissioner Goodell . The belief is that the player may well miss the whole of the upcoming season. Whether or not that’s enough of a punishment for the player as it’s viewed by some , it remains to be seen. The biggest concern I however feel, is that, the mere fact , that the player harbors an ambition to resume his career speaks to the fact that there are those of us who feel that that Stallworth shouldn’t be allowed to return to the game anytime soon.

OK , so Stallworth settled a civil suit with the victim’s family with monetary settlement that hasn’t been disclosed to the public. And whatever that price may well be. In no way will it compensate for the loss of a life. In this case a father, a husband, a provider and above all a human being. The loss of life while dear, it is sometimes treated by others as if it’s nothing more than a chattel that can be easily overcome. And that is despite the emotional trauma that’s often created. It appear that the outrage here isn’t as loud when measured against that of the misdeeds of Michael Vick . But then again all Vick decided to do , was to punish a few dogs in his own asinine way. Lie to the fans, his employers , his teammates and to federal law enforcement officials. And for those actions and the player spent two years in jail . And we can now forgive the player for those transgressions ? Make of it what you will.

For ESPN and its organization as a whole. It’d appear that they’re not necessarily going about reporting the news but merely being front and center , with regard to being part of it. I was under the impression that a news organization was meant to be about gathering news information and reporting it without seemingly any impartiality. ESPN , nowadays seemingly wants to be an integral part of being in the midst of a news story without showing any veracity as to how it gathers its news items for public presentation and consumption.

Smith’s interview with Stallworth was conducted on the ESPN magazine show E:60 . The scheduled pogramming of the show is on ESPN 7:00 pm EST each Tuesday evening.

NB…. In order to watch this interview in part just click on the text shown below.

Michael Smith’s interview with Donte’ Stallworth …