Fox has hired Michael Vick as a studio analyst for "Fox NFL Kickoff," and he will also make "regular appearances on FS1 studio shows," according to A.J. Perez of USA TODAY. Vick said, "Things really came together (with Fox) over the last couple months. They have shows that I have always watched and admired." Perez noted Fox "sees upside in Vick's potential as a broadcaster," similar to what they saw in former MLBer Alex Rodriguez. Fox President of Production John Entz said of Vick, "He was obviously an outstanding player, but we feel he has an incredibly bright future as an analyst." Vick said he has "never criticized players," but he will "be critical" as part of his new job. Vick: "Great players understand that. I've seen the reactions from my teammates watching shows in the team lounge when they disagree with something. I'm a credible guy and I think people will respect that" (USATODAY.com, 8/25). SPORTING NEWS' Michael McCarthy noted some animal lovers are "already protesting" Fox' hiring of Vick. The group Rally for Animals has "posted a petition on Change.Org threatening a boycott of Fox and its sponsors unless the network dumps Vick" (SPORTINGNEWS.com, 8/27).
