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Vick reinstated conditionally, may play by Week 6

1 hour, 6 minutes ago

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Quarterback Michael Vick has been reinstated to the NFL on a conditional basis and may be able to play by the sixth week of the regular season, Commissioner Roger Goodell said on Monday.

Vick, who completed a 23-month sentence for bankrolling a dog-fighting ring, will be considered for full reinstatement for the NFL's October 18-19 games "based on the progress he makes in his transition plan," the commissioner said in a statement.

Vick was grateful to be given the chance to play again.

"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 in a statement.

"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, a former number one overall pick in the NFL Draft and All-Pro quarterback, said he had learned from the experience and would continue to receive mentoring from former NFL coach Tony Dungy, who steered the Indianapolis Colts to a Super Bowl title.

"As you can imagine, the last two years have given me time to revaluate my life, mature as an individual and fully understand the terrible mistakes I made in the past and what type of life I must lead moving forward," said Vick.

Vick played six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons but was released by the club following his conviction.

The 29-year-old quarterback is currently a free agent and able to sign with any team. If he signs for a team he will be allowed to practice through the summer and would be able to play in the final two preseason games, the commissioner said.

(Reporting by Steve Ginsburg and Larry Fine; Editing by Sonia Oxley)