Michael Vick will not play tomorrow

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick (7) hurdles a player as he runs with the ball against the New York Giants in the first half during the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia Eagles QB Michael Vick was able to practice fully yesterday, but he was still not expected to play in tomorrow’s game. Eagles head coach Chip Kelly recently stated that he does not want to rush Vick, who also practiced on a limited basis on Thursday. While the hamstring injury Vick suffered last week against the New York Giants doesn’t seem too serious, it is in the best interest of the Eagles to bench him. Nick Foles can still “beat” the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Eagles have enough confidence in Foles to not feel the need to start Vick. His status for this week’s game was always in doubt ever since reports following Sunday’s game, and the Philadelphia Inquirer reported yesterday that Vick is “doubtful” to play.

Now, we have a report saying “no”. ESPN NFL Nation’s Phil Sheridan reports that Michael Vick will not play against the Buccaneers tomorrow, and I definitely don’t anticipate his source being wrong here. The Eagles most likely allowed Vick to practice solely to cause the Bucs to have to prepare for both Vick and Foles, which is certainly something Chip Kelly would do (most coaches would) and is a shrewd move overall.

Foles will be backed up by rookie quarterback Matt Barkley, who is healthy after still suffering from the ill effects of a separated shoulder during the offseason. Barkley is set to be active for the first time this season. The Eagles have been wisely cautious with managing Vick’s injury, but he will almost certainly be back out there next week in a rivalry game against the Dallas Cowboys.

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