Michael Irvin: The Voice of Reason on Vick's Predicament

by NOIS, Nation of Islam Sportsblog

Wisdom is something acquired through experience. Individuals that have never been through difficulties or found themselves in troubled times generally aren't good sources of advice or input when tough times arise.

Who better to look to for insight on this Michael Vick media storm than the Playmaker. What player found himself more frequently dealing with having to explain his lifestyle to law enforcement officers or judges?

Michael Irvin on the Drive on FOX : "I do think the rule, is a good rule (the conduct policy). I look at it with this perspective, I look at it as him trying to help these young guys make a decision not to do things because you know, you are like 21, 22, 23 you think that you have forever and no matter what you do you get over it, people forget about it, really people don't forget about it so I like how he is stepping up and helping it. The rule is what it is , it's for repeat offenders, I think he should not suspend Michael Vick right now, because he's doing the right thing, allow this do process, this is Michael's first run in with the law like this. "

So, while some are clamoring for Vick's suspension, the voice of reason dictates that a suspension would clearly be inappropriate. Vick hasn't been indicted on a federal felony charge before, so obviously, if the intent of the commissioner's disciplinary program is to punish repeat offenders, suspending him would be a misuse of the system.

And really, even if Vick were a repeat offender, would a suspension be necessary? Irvin was never suspended after multiple run-ins with the law, and he made the Hall of Fame.

Perhaps, the most important lesson in Mr. Irvin's pearl of wisdom, "allow this do (sic) process". It would be horrible to suspend Vick prior to a full disclosure of all facts and determination of culpability.

Ask Pacman.