NEW YORK (AP) — Tony Dungy says Michael Vick could potentially wind up in Buffalo, which he says previously discussed signing the quarterback.
Dungy has served as an adviser to Vick since the Super Bowl-winning coach retired from the Colts after last season. Now a commentator for NBC, Dungy confirmed during the pregame show Sunday night before Philadelphia hosted Dallas that the Bills and Vick "talked originally" when Vick was searching for a team after serving 18 months in federal prison for running a dogfighting ring.
The Eagles signed Vick to a $1.6 million contract for 2009, with a team option for the second year at $5.2 million. But he has played sparingly.
"I told Michael to just worry about this year," Dungy said. "It's technically up to Philadelphia. If they want him back, he has to stay there. If they don't, there are some teams looking for quarterbacks: Cleveland, St. Louis and Washington.
"But I think a dark horse is Buffalo. They talked originally. There was some communication there. I think that could be a good spot."
Bills starter Trent Edwards struggled this season before sustaining a concussion. Ryan Fitzpatrick, a career backup, has been the starter with Edwards out of the lineup.
Vick has completed 2 of 6 passes for 6 yards and rushed 11 times for 25 yards, mostly out of the wildcat formation.
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Whitner Would Welcome Vick in Buffalo
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) - If Tony Dungy believes Michael Vick would be a good fit in Buffalo, Donte Whitner is on board.
Confident Vick can regain his once-dynamic form, the Bills safety said Monday he would encourage his team to pursue Vick if the Eagles - who hold a $5.2 million option for next season - decide to release Vick in the offseason. Without referring to Buffalo quarterback Trent Edwards, Whitner said players are replaceable, and it's important for teams to bring in "other guys that can get the job done."
Whitner spoke a day after Dungy linked Vick and the Bills during NBC's NFL pre-game show. Dungy, who serves as Vick's adviser, referred to Buffalo as "a dark horse" candidate to land the quarterback after he said the Bills previously expressed interest.
©2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
