Vick-To-Pats Theory Gaining Momentum

There’s been a theory making the rounds in the media that the New England Patriots could be a perfect destination for former Falcons quarterback Mike Vick. Previously, we’d brushed off such speculation, since we believe (and we’ve been told) that Vick will be looking for a place where he can compete for the starting quarterback job. In New England, that wouldn’t be happening -- barring another Tom Brady ACL eruption. But we’re now hearing that there could be something to the chatter, primarily since it’s appearing more and more likely that Vick won’t have many/any options to compete for the every-down quarterback job in 2009. Under those circumstances, sending Vick to New England for a year could help Vick position himself to become an attractive candidate for another team in 2010. Of course, this would require coach Bill Belichick to be willing to sign Vick to a one-year deal only. If Belichick goes out on a limb for the man who previously hanged a dog or two from one, the Patriots likely will want to have the option to keep him beyond 2009. Vick, on the other hand, presumably would like to parlay a stint with the Pats into something bigger and better, as soon as possible. So if the Pats insist on something more than a one-year contract, Vick likely will look to a team where, come 2010, he would have a crack at unseating the incumbent. The Rams, who reportedly are interested in Vick, might give him the best chance in this regard, since current starter Marc Bulger predates both G.M. Billy Devaney and head coach Steve Spagnuolo.