Michael Vick, known as one of the most polarizing figures in NFL history, had a controversial career that was marred by his involvement in illegal dog fighting that led to his incarceration. However, despite the controversy, Vick was still a talented athlete, and his playing ability earned him several lucrative NFL contracts.
Vick`s first contract was with the Atlanta Falcons, who selected him as the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL draft. His initial contract was a six-year, $62 million deal, including a $15.3 million signing bonus. This contract was the largest ever given to a rookie at the time. Vick`s first few seasons in the NFL were promising, and he quickly became one of the most exciting players in the league.
In 2004, the Falcons restructured Vick`s contract, giving him a 10-year, $130 million deal, with $37 million guaranteed. This contract made Vick the highest-paid player in the NFL at the time. However, Vick`s career took a downward turn when he was implicated in the dog fighting scandal in 2007, which ultimately led to his suspension and eventual release from the Falcons.
After serving time in prison, Vick was given a chance to revive his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2009, the Eagles signed Vick to a two-year contract worth $6.7 million. Vick`s new contract was much smaller than his previous deals, reflecting the tarnished image he had acquired after the dog fighting scandal.
However, Vick`s performance on the field with the Eagles was impressive, and he was rewarded with a six-year, $100 million contract extension in 2011. This contract also included $40 million guaranteed. Vick`s time with the Eagles was successful, and he was eventually released in 2013.
Vick`s final NFL contract was with the New York Jets in 2014. He signed a one-year deal worth $4 million, with $2 million guaranteed. Vick`s time with the Jets was brief, and he retired from the NFL after the 2015 season.
In conclusion, Michael Vick`s NFL career had its ups and downs, but his talent on the field earned him several lucrative contracts throughout his career. Despite the controversy that surrounded him, Vick remains a notable figure in NFL history.