Chapter 17

1. What do you think of Michael Vick’s decision to accept jail time and hold a press conference?

I believe that this was a good decision on Vick’s part. Going to jail and having the press conference was a good way to show that he understood that he was wrong and knows that there were consequences for his actions. Showing that you he knew he was wrong helps the public see that he is human and makes mistakes.

2. If you were advising Vick, how would you suggest he comport himself now that he is back in the NFL? What should he do, in a public relations sense, when he is freed?

If I were advising Vick, I would suggest he come back to the NFL a “changed” man. He should show that he is making effort to make change in his life both on the field and off. He should take the opportunity to get back on the public’s good side. He should publicly say that he learned his lesson, things about himself, and let the public know that things will be different. He should realize that football is really important to him and he was foolish to jeopardize his career and life the way he did.

3. If you were advising the National Football League, how would you suggest it handle Vick’s reinstatement?

I would suggest they keep him supervised and accountable for everything he does until further notice. He’s already crossed the line and made the NFL look foolish once, so a zero tolerance policy with Vick should be instated. If Vick wants to play in their league, they better make sure he follows their rules.

4. If you were advising corporate sponsors, what would you suggest they do relative to Michael Vick, now that he is back in the NFL?

I would advise the sponsors to take advantage of press he’s getting. It would be silly not to take advantage of Vick being back to the NFL. For all of the people who don’t like Vick anymore, there were just as many people itching for him to come back.