Vick set to start after concussion for Eagles
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick has been cleared by an independent neurologist for workouts and barring an unforseen setback will start in Sunday’s NFL game.
Vick has spent the past few days undergoing tests under the NFL’s new analysis program to combat head injuries and completed all testing, allowing him to return on Sunday when the Eagles play host to the New York Giants.
“There’s no reason to think I won’t be able to play on Sunday,” Vick said after Friday’s practice session. “I’m very optimistic I will be able to play and that I’ll be able to last the full 60 minutes.”
Rick Burkholder, the Eagles trainer, has worked with Vick during his recovery after the run-pass threat was knocked out of last Sunday’s game at Atlanta, his first against his former club as a starter.
“Everything has gone as planned,” Burkholder said.
Eagles receiver Jeremy Maclin said Vick looked fine to him over two practice sessions.
“He made all of the right throws and he looked like himself,” Maclin said. “I think he’s in good shape.”
Vick’s return brings an emotional boost to the Eagles ahead of their home opener against an NFC East division rival.
“Mike is our leader, so having him back is something big for us,” running back LeSean McCoy said. “We’re happy he’s back.”
Vick is sending a message of toughness to his teammates.
“We already know he’s tough. He wanted to go back in the game despite the hit and everything,” Eagles center Jason Kelce said.
“We already knew he was a competitor and this is just reiterating that. He’s not trying to sit out. He’s trying to win ball games and championships.”