Michael Vick is definitely one of the most talked-about and marketable names in Atlanta football. During his six seasons with the Falcons from 2001 to 2006, he made it to the Pro Bowl three times and became the first quarterback ever to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season, hitting 1,039 yards in 2006. With an average of 8.4 yards per carry, he ended up with a playoff record of 2-2 and even led Atlanta to the NFC Championship game in 2004. His unforgettable stats and unique style made him the face of the Falcons. But then came his well-publicized fall, which everyone knows about. His journey through tough times really shows off an inspiring story of resilience—going from serving 21 months in prison to becoming the head coach of the new Spartans. Even though a lot of time has passed, the footprint he left at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is still felt today.

Vick’s career came to an abrupt halt in 2007 when he was charged and arrested for his involvement in a brutal dogfighting operation. Reports indicated that Vick and his associates trained dogs to participate in traumatic fights, resulting in severe injuries and even death. Dogs that did not perform well often faced brutal execution. This scandal severely damaged Vick’s career and reputation. Even after his imprisonment, his suspension from the NFL remained in effect, and many believed his career was over. Additionally, he faced bankruptcy after the Falcons reclaimed a portion of his signing bonus.

Streak Shapiro, Trey Montgomery, and a bunch of other Atlanta sports experts dug into the lost legacy of the current Norfolk State head coach. What they found was the leftover of a timeless legacy, a brand that adorns the city. Explaining the exact reason why Atlanta fans are still loyal to their 2000s QB, Shapiro went on, “They (New England) just love Tom Brady. They (Atlanta) love Michael Vick. There are certain stars that resonate with the city. Michael Vick was the ATL. What s__s about doing sports in Atlanta is that sometimes, we are just not on the radar.”

Shapiro continued, “Especially now, with the NBA and NFL. Like we are not on the radar. Mike Vick was the biggest thing in professional sports, and in Atlanta, you did not miss a Michael Vick start. I got a press pass, which I have had for years. We just want to be relevant.”

It’s not always about the records. Vick was quite a part of the culture, or the culture itself. The QB didn’t end on a good note. Some fans still hold him accountable for that. But Vick, regardless, brought a vibe that’s difficult to ignore. It may be the same reason why the Falcons love Deion Sanders, or maybe something extra, something subtle yet inexplicable. Vick is Atlanta. He generated the money, leading the fans to the stadium. “I think that’s why Vick is still loved by so many people for that reason alone. Because it gave the city, it gave the team a certain relevance,” Trey Montgomery chimed in.

They were not elusive in their claims at all. The youngster’s approval says it all.

The youngsters still draw inspiration from Michael Vick 

The kid in Atlanta remembers him as a hero, not a villain. Eric Phoenix was just 16 years old (as of 2017). But he already idolized Michael Vick. The kid looked up to the former Atlanta Falcons star. The left-handed quarterback prospect from Savannah, Georgia, has bagged the honor of the quarterback MVP at Vick’s V7 Elite Playmakers Showcase Series on Sunday afternoon in Atlanta’s inner city.

“I know a lot about Michael Vick,” Phoenix said. “I know he went to Virginia Tech, too. And he’s the reason why I wear the No. 7.” Phoenix couldn’t get enough of his hero.

In case you think it’s kind of wrong to vest so much love in an athlete with a criminal record, just know, Vick worked hard to balance his karma. As an Eagle quarterback in 2010, he made a fierce comeback with notable performances, earning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and a Pro Bowl selection.

Also, Vick relentlessly advocates for animal rights as an integral part of organizations like the Humane Society to take steps against animal cruelty and raise awareness. A sinner turned saint? Well, you may call it that, but Vick remains steadfast on his redemption path, regardless of any tag.