Joe Horn Wants To Win

ESPN is speculating that the NFL, NFLPA and the Atlanta Falcons are leaning toward urging Michael Vick to take a voluntary leave of absence. Remember, ESPN also said Vick wasn't going to be indicted. So, give ESPN reports as much credibility as you want. But there are actually some factual developments today.

One of the concerns about Michael Vick remaining on the active roster is the effect on the team if the Vick situation was to drag out. Presumably, teammates would be forced to answer questions about Michael and generally suffer negative consequences from having to cope with Vick's circumstances.

Well, wide receiver Joe Horn is voicing his support for Vick.

"Mike is saddened about the tension this is going to cause the team. I assured him I support him, the rest of the guys support him and the team supports him. Whether he's guilty or innocent or whether you believe he is, time will tell.

"No one, I don't care if you're wealthy or poor, no one is immune to the trials and tribulations of life. Everyone who's breathing is going to have to deal with issues in their life. Unfortunately, Mike is up at bat right now."

Horn said he understands NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's right to suspend Vick and the team's option to keep Vick away from team activities, but he doesn't think that would be right or in the best interest of anyone involved.

"Not having him around, that will hurt. I think he should be around. The more he's around his teammates playing football might help Michael Vick. I don't think suspending him is going to help him."

"Michael wants to play football. He told me over and over again, 'I know what's going on and I need to be there playing and go through training camp to try and get through this.'"

Joe just signed with Atlanta, presumably with the expectation of winning. I would guess Joey Harrington wasn't part of that expectation. The rumors are that the Falcons have already decided not to pursue Daunte Culpepper. So, if the Falcons are interested in winning this season and for the prospective future, they have no choice but to figure out a way to work through Vick's situation. Joe Horn and me feel this to be true.