Michael Vick may want to be a starting quarterback in 2014, but no other team appears to want that. After players like Josh McCown, Matt Cassel and even Brandon Weeden were signed to new teams, Vick is left on the free agent market, likely contemplating if his career is over. The quarterback has garnered little to no interest from teams since becoming available. Is there any hope he signs before training camp?
Anwar S. Richardson of Yahoo Sports reports that Vick has not taken a single visit to any team in free agency. The quarterback's name has been tossed around with several teams including the New York Jets, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders, but so far no one has actually followed up and brought him in. The lack of interest got even worse when the San Francisco 49ers opted to give up a sixth-round draft pick for Blaine Gabbert over signing Vick to a deal. Was that the beginning of the end for the veteran?
Vick will find a job before the season starts, but only if he lowers his expectations. There is not going to be a starting option for him. Signing with a winning team might not be available. If he wants to play, he will have to take what is offered and settle. So who is left that could be willing to take a chance on Vick?
The Buffalo Bills could be a target. Head coach Doug Marrone told media last week that the team was not considering signing a veteran quarterback at the moment, likely making a move in the draft instead. However, if Marrone sees that EJ Manuel will be healthy and could return as the team's starter, signing Vick might be a smart move so the quarterback could be a mentor to the second-year pro.
The Cleveland Browns are an option, but again as a backup. The team has released Weeden and Jason Campbell, leaving them with Brian Hoyer. The Browns want a veteran to help backup whoever they draft this year. If players like Matt Schaub and Mark Sanchez are not available, Vick will be the best option.
Of course the Jets are an option, but only if Sanchez is released. Rather than draft someone, Vick could step in as Geno Smith's backup. The two quarterbacks have a similar skillset and he could help the second-year quarterback develop.
Anyone who thinks the Atlanta Falcons are an option for Vick can think again. Yes, the Falcons need a backup to Matt Ryan. No, they are not interested in bringing back Vick. The quarterback and the city are no longer on good terms and Arthur Blank will not make the move. At best, Vick has maybe four teams as options to sign.