Pittsburgh Steelers sign quarterback Michael Vick
The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed free agent quarterback Michael Vick.
The team announced the news Tuesday night. They placed backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski on injured reserve in a corresponding move.
Gradkowski's shoulder injury in addition to surgery on his left hand caused the Steelers to turn to Vick, who reportedly visited the team on Tuesday and got the deal done. He will provide depth behind Ben Roethlisberger at the position.
“There’s not a throw on the field he can’t make from an arm-strength-standpoint,” said Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “He’s a very experienced guy at what he does at this point in his career. And obviously the mobility is still unique even at 35.”
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Vick battled off-field problems earlier in his career including a stay in prison on felony charges for dogfighting. After being released from prison, Vick reportedly received some free agent interest from Tomlin. He spent last season as a member of the Jets, appearing in 10 games and throwing for 604 yards and three touchdowns.
“For me, it’s about any way, any person, any thing who can help this team,’’ Roethlisberger said, according to the Post-Gazette. “If that’s Michael Vick, then so be it.”
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