Steelers sign Michael Vick to one-year deal; Bruce Gradkowski to IR

The Steelers signed the four-time Pro Bowler to a one-year deal on Tuesday night, hopeful there’s enough game left in the 35-year-old’s still risky legs to provide the defending AFC North champions some insurance should something happen to Ben Roethlisberger.

Vick was the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons and played for the team through 2006 until his conviction and imprisonment for running a dog fighting ring. Gradkowski injured his finger during Sunday’s preseason game against the Green Bay Packers; an injury that required surgery, which was performed on Tuesday. His most recent chances as a starter, with the Philadelphia Eagles and Jets, ended with injuries. He completed 64 of 121 passes for 604 yards, throwing three touchdowns and two interceptions during what was for him a disappointing season.

Said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin when asked if Vick would end up on the field in regular season packages: “We’re trying to figure out quarterback right now”. “And obviously the mobility is still unique even at 35”. The Jets didn’t show any interest to retain him. If that’s Michael Vick, then so be it. He’s a great football player.

He has thrown for 4,057 yards on 375-of-709 passing with 21 touchdowns in 37 games (20 starts) in his NFL career.

The protesters across the street from the team facility were part of the Justice with Animals group, whose members said they objected to Vick being part of the team. I’m sure everybody (in the front office) and the rest of the team will welcome him with open arms if he can help us win.

“He definitely has a lot left in the tank, so I’m excited”, said cornerback Brandon Boykin, who played with Vick in Philadelphia. As a result, Vick has played outside the pocket most of his career, but that will be much harder in Pittsburgh as the Steelers don’t have an athletic offensive line. Albeit the last two seasons he’s been on the field, the majority of history for Roethlisberger says otherwise. “His track record to this point speaks for itself”.