Official Ass-Covering Statements

The NFL and Atlanta Falcons have issued some wishy-washy CYA statements for the press. Enjoy.

NFL Official Statement (courtesy of the AJC):

"We are disappointed that Michael Vick has put himself in a position where a federal grand jury has returned an indictment against him," NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said.

"The activities alleged are cruel, degrading and illegal. Michael Vick's guilt has not yet been proven, and we believe that all concerned should allow the legal process to determine the facts."

I may have to eat my earlier words about a quick suspension. Could the NFLPA finally be rattling its sword? I certainly hope this is not where the union decides to make its stand on the Personal Conduct Policy.

Atlanta Falcons Official Statement:

This situation has been troubling to many people, including our fans, during the last few months. With today’s news, our club and team will continue to be tested as Michael works through the legal process toward a conclusion.

We are disappointed that one of our players – and therefore the Falcons – is being presented to the public in a negative way, and we apologize to our fans and the community for that.

Obviously, we are disturbed by today’s news from Virginia. However, we are prepared to deal with it, and we will do the right thing for our club as the legal process plays out. We have a season to prepare for and training camp opens next week. Our plan is to continue to do everything we can to support our players and coaches.

Looks like the Falcons plan to see the way the wind blows before they do anything. Nice way to play the CYA game and completely abandon any thought of doing what's best for the team to win instead of what's the best for the bottom line.

For those wondering about the language of the Personal Conduct Policy, I believe this is the relevant text:

Prohibited Conduct

It will be considered conduct detrimental for Covered Persons to engage in (or to aid, abet or conspire to engage in or to incite) violent and/or criminal activity. Examples of such Prohibited Conduct include, without limitation: any crime involving the use or threat of physical violence to a person or persons; the use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a crime; possession or distribution of a weapon in violation of state or federal law; involvement in "hate crimes" or crimes of domestic violence; theft, larceny or other property crimes; sex offenses; racketeering; money laundering; obstruction of justice; resisting arrest; fraud; and violent or threatening conduct. Additionally, Covered Persons shall not by their words or conduct suggest that criminal activity is acceptable or condoned within the NFL.

Persons Charged With Criminal Activity

Any Covered Person arrested for or charged with conduct prohibited by this policy will be required to undergo an immediate, mandatory clinical evaluation and, if directed, appropriate counseling. Such evaluation and counseling must be performed under the direction and supervision of the NFL Vice President of Player and Employee Development. Failure to cooperate with evaluation and counseling (including being arrested for or charged with additional criminal activity during the evaluation and counseling period) shall itself be conduct detrimental to the National Football League and shall be punishable by fine or suspension at the discretion of the Commissioner.

In short, being charged with a violent crime is sufficient for a suspension. Remember, that the man who issues the penalties, Commissioner Roger Goodell, is the same man who hears the appeals, Commissioner Roger Goodell.