Ron Mexico Is Back … Sort Of

Michael Vick (a.k.a. Ron Mexico) is back … sort of.

Yesterday, NFL Commish Roger Goodell granted the convicted canine killer a “partial reinstatement” to the league after Vick served two years in a federal penitentiary for running a dog-fighting ring in his native Virginia.

Since we’re already on the record supporting Vick’s reinstatement, we obviously support Goodell’s decision – including the strict terms attached to it.

“I accept that you are sincere when you say that you want to, and will, turn your life around, and that you intend to be a positive role model for others,” Goodell said in a letter to Vick outlining his decision. “I am prepared to offer you that opportunity. Whether you succeed is entirely in your hands.”

Here’s the nuts and bolts – Vick will be ineligible to play until at least October, at which point Goodell will conduct an evaluation. At that point, he can either extend the suspension or grant Vick full reinstatement.

For those of you keeping score at home, that’s 25% of the 2009 season gone – which substantially reduces Vick’s free agency value. Well, above and beyond the fact that he hasn’t played in an NFL game since the 2006 season finale. Oh, and the fact that he’s going to require a friggin’ army of security to keep the PETA freaks off his back.

Still, Vick’s agent says his phone is ringing off the hook – which frankly doesn’t surprise us. And Vick is contrite as can be …

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to commissioner Goodell for allowing me to be readmitted to the National Football League,” Vick said through agent Joel Segal. “I fully understand that playing football in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given.”

Vick is not your prototypical NFL quarterback, but he’s a once-in-a-generation talent. Had he stayed out of trouble, Vick could have literally redefined the position with his unrivaled athleticism and elusiveness. Now he’ll have to settle for a shot at “partially” redefining it.

Incidentally, players’ union reps hate the Vick situation because it confers near-dictatorial powers upon Goodell, but then again they can’t fight the ruling because of the nature of Vick’s crimes.

Assuming he can find a team willing to sign him, Vick will be permitted to participate in workouts, practices and will be allowed to play in preseason games.

Several teams have already publicly said they won’t sign Vick. Others are stocked at quarterback and unlikely to take a chance on him.

Are there any teams that don’t fit either of those categories?

Sure … Cleveland, Denver, Miami, Oakland, San Franciso, Tampa Bay, Tennessee and Washington, for starters.