A couple of weeks ago, michael vick announced that he wanted to sign a ceremonial contract with the Atlanta Falcons so he could retire from the NFL with the team he started his career with. While the Falcons have not agreed to that at this time, Atlanta is planning a special day for both Vick and retired wide receiver Roddy White. On Monday, June 12, the Falcons will hold a press conference and a special ceremony to honor both Vick and White for their years with the franchise.
Atlanta Falcons' statement
The Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said that all former players are "Falcons for life" and they consider all the players to be part of their family.
Blank said that both Michael Vick and Roddy White made a huge impact on the team, the city of Atlanta, and the Blank family. To that end, Atlanta said that they will honor the two players and allow them to retire as Falcons.
However, and this is where the Atlanta Falcons won't be granting Michael Vick's wish at this time, neither player will get a one-day ceremonial contract to signify that they officially retired as Falcons. Blank said they don't need official contracts to signify them retiring as Falcons, and that this event will just be ceremonial in nature.
Michael Vick and the Falcons
Over his career with the Atlanta Falcons, Michael Vick was the first quarterback to ever rush for 1,000 yards in a season with 1,039 yards in 2006.
After his playing career ended, Vick was the NFL record holder for rushing yards by a quarterback with 6,109. He played for Atlanta for six seasons but his career there came to an end when he was arrested for an illegal dog fighting ring that took place at his home.
While in prison, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank kept a close relationship with Michael Vick, although he released him from the Falcons before he was released from prison.
Vick finished his career playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Roddy White with Atlanta
Much like Michael Vick, the contributions of Roddy White were record-breaking for the Atlanta Falcons. White holds the Falcons' franchise record for receptions (808), receiving yards (10,863), and touchdown receptions (63).
He was the best receiver on the team until Julio Jones joined the franchise.
The last time he played was in 2015 and the Falcons released him after that season. Roddy White sat out of the 2016 season but said that he really would like to retire as a member of the Atlanta Falcons. Much like Michael Vick, White got his wish as well.
