In Atlanta, Jeff Schultz noted Michael Vick was "among several former Falcons who were brought back" to the Georgia Dome for Sunday's game against the Saints to "commemorate the team’s final regular season game" at the venue. This was Vick’s "first time back in the Dome" since '11 when he was with the Eagles. Falcons Owner Arthur Blank has said several times in recent years that he "has forgiven Vick and moved on." However, what happened Sunday "was significant," as Blank inviting Vick back to the building is the "most overt symbol of that forgiveness." This might be the "first in a series of Vick-Falcons photo ops." It also "wouldn’t be surprising to see him return and officially retire as a Falcon" (MYAJC.com, 1/1).
IDENTITY CRISIS: In Jacksonville, Gene Frenette wrote the next few weeks will be time for Jaguars Owner Shahid Khan and GM Dave Caldwell to "set the wheels in motion to alter the Jaguars’ losing identity." It "won’t be a good sign if their solution is a first-time NFL head coach." No matter "how much leaders preach about accountability or there being consequences for losing games, a transformation at 1 EverBank Field Drive has a better chance of happening with a coach who’s been there, done that" (FLORIDA TIMES-UNION, 1/2).
TAKING THE NEXT STEP: In Tampa, Tom Jones noted the Buccaneers are out of the playoffs for the "ninth consecutive season," but there is "much to like about what the Bucs did this season." Despite that, no one "should be satisfied that the season is over before the playoffs begin," and it is up to GM Jason Licht "to fix that." Next season "will be his fourth" as GM, more than enough time "to expect some postseason appearances." The Bucs are a "better team than when Licht walked in the door, but they remain on the outside looking in" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 1/2).
