Contrary to reports based on the word of Michael Vick’s agent, Joel Segal, Nike has NOT signed Vick to an endorsement contract.  According to Nike, they have “agreed to supply product to Michael Vick as we do a number of athletes who are not under contract with Nike.”

Indianapolis, Indiana — According to a source at the Indiana Chronicle, rumors are starting to fly that the 2008 NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals are interested in bringing in former Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback Michael Vick as a backup and eventual replacement for Kurt Warner, provided that he is reinstated by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Tom Smith, spokesman for the Arizona Cardinals, denies these rumors.

In a phone interview with the Indiana Chronicle, Smith stated, “Why in the world would the Arizona Cardinals be interested in Michael Vick? We just re-signed Kurt Warner to a two year deal and have Matt Leinart waiting in the wings. That’s about as ludicrous as saying that the Arizona Cardinals want to bring back Dennis Green as their head coach.”

Personally, I would have to agree with Smith’s assessment. It makes no sense to bring in Vick unless 1)  you are unsure of Warner’s health given his recent hip surgery and/or 2) you just have no confidence in Leinart as a starter AND 3) you want to get back to your losing ways.

So what does the NFL think about this?

Roger Goodell could not be reached directly, but a spokeswoman for the NFL stated, “We have not heard any such reports and note that Michael Vick is still banned from playing in the NFL . In the event that Mr. Vick is reinstated and the Arizona Cardinals are interested in signing him, the NFL will stand behind it.”

Typical response.

While all of this is a bit intriguing, if the rumors are true I’d advise the Arizona Cardinals to not go down this path. Turn around and talk to someone like Jay Cutler if you really want to throw another quarterback in the mix. If you opt for Vick you might as well chase down all of the other goons that are currently available and sign them as well.