ESPN’s ’30 for 30′ look at Michael Vick debut to rave reviews last Thursday night. In the first part of the docuseries, Stanley Nelson highlighted Vick’s upbringing in Newport News, Virginia and his path to stardom at Virginia Tech and then with the Atlanta Falcons.
In the second part set to air tonight, Nelson takes a look at the role Donovan McNabb, Andy Reid and Reid’s son, Britt, played in Vick getting his opportunity for redemption.
Vick was released by the Falcons shortly before leaving prison and after his release was signed by the Eagles in 2009 with the help of Donovan McNabb.
Andy Reid and @donovanjmcnabb explain why they helped @MichaelVick get back into the NFL.
Vick: Part 2 will air February 6th, at 9 PM ET on ESPN. pic.twitter.com/7VZ6ki9Zrz
— ESPN (@espn) February 6, 2020
Both of Reid’s son’s dealt with various issues during his time with the Eagles and his son Garrett passed away from an accidental drug overdose in 2012 at the age of 29.
Coach Andy Reid was instrumental in bringing Michael Vick back into the NFL.
Vick: Part 2 airs at 9 PM ET on ESPN. pic.twitter.com/PMnLyr5L5Q
— 30 for 30 (@30for30) February 6, 2020
Reid’s ability to understand forgiveness and second chances played a huge role in the legendary head coach co-signing Vick while understanding the backlash that would come with bringing a quarterback convicted of dogfighting onto the roster.
McNabb played a huge role, as his willingness to play mentor and big brother to Vick, likely cost him his job with the Eagles.
While a member of the Eagles and able to learn under the tutelage of Andy Reid, Vick has his best passing season as a pro, resurrecting his career and being named to his fourth Pro Bowl in 2010.
The following offseason, the Eagles gave Vick a $100 million deal, and the rest is history.
“Vick,” a two-part “30 for 30” documentary from filmmaker Stanley Nelson is set to air part 2 on February 6.