Michael Vick puts Jets’ struggles in perspective, gives back

Amidst a lot of speculation and second-guessing in New York regarding the Jets’ quarterback situation, Michael Vick provided not just a dose of reality on Wednesday but a whole heaping of perspective. Despite the turmoil around the team, Vick’s actions are a reminder of the things that are truly important in this world, and it has nothing to do with being a starter, or even the game of football.

Very quietly this week, Vick will donate 100 turkeys to families in Newport News, VA, just minutes away from where the NFL star grew up. The donations will be donated through the city’s Department of Human Services to ensure that they go to families in need.

“I have learned to keep working hard because your opportunities will come,” Vick told Metro. “Everyday, I am thankful for the ability to play in the NFL. I am inspired to help others since I have been blessed with so much.”

The turkey giveaway is annual tradition from Vick and part of his heart attitude towards the people from the Tidewater region of Virginia.

In addition to the turkeys, the Jets quarterback through his ‘Team Vick Foundation’ will donate hundreds of pairs of shoes to children in Harlem, N.Y. as well as in Newport News. Earlier this year when Vick obtained the No. 1 jersey from new teammate Ryan Quigley, he made a $5,000 donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem as part of Quigley’s stipulation to give up the jersey. This donation, in conjunction with Nike, represents a second donation to the charity this year and has nothing to do with the Jersey ‘purchase’ from Quigley.

“When these kids wear their new shoes, I want them to know that someone cares about them,” Vick said. “I want these children to stand tall and use that confidence to make a difference in their own community.”

Jets Notes

Muhammad Wilkerson, who exited Monday night’s game with a toe injury, might end up missing this Monday night as well. The Jets All-Pro defensive end did not practice on Wednesday.

“He was not able to practice today. He is in a boot. The severity of that, I guess we will find out later,” head coach Rex Ryan said following practice. “I think he is going to get, I don’t know if it’s an MRI or something like that on it. But, I think if you are in a boot, that doesn’t look good for this week. But hopefully we get him back as soon as we can. Obviously, we need him.”

Going through the NFL’s concussion protocol, rookie tight end Jace Amaro will likely be a scratch from Monday night’s game. If that’s the case, logic would hold that Jeff Cumberland gets bumped into a more prominent role and that Chris Pantale gets called up to the practice squad.

“That’s a possibility. He has done a nice job for us on the scout team,” Ryan said. “He can backup, he can play a tight end spot, he can play a fullback, he can do different things, and he also would have special teams value, so that would be a real possibility.”