Vick Insists He'll Be Back At VT
Virginia Tech quarterback Michael Vick, the subject of growing speculation that he will give up his last two years of eligibility and turn pro, told an Atlanta radio station that he will return to the Hokies as a redshirt junior next season.
"I'm coming back to school next year. That's what I'm saying," Vick told WQXI on Wednesday when asked to clarify whether he might change his mind.
Vick is one of the leading contenders for the Heisman Trophy this season after finishing third in the voting a year ago. He also has helped put the second-ranked Hokies (6-0) in position to make a second straight run at the national title.
Virginia Tech lost 46-29 to Florida State in last year's championship game.
Speculation about the sensational left-hander's plans grew after a newspaper reported last week that Vick was struggling academically at Virginia Tech.
In a teleconference with reporters Wednesday, Vick said he didn't know where the report came, but said his grades were fine and that the report was not accurate.
"The issue of coming out early is something I won't entertain right now. I'm definitely not thinking or considering to come out this season," Vick said.
Hokies coach Frank Beamer also disputed the report. He said Vick's grades are fine and reports about Vick's future made for good writing, but were pure speculation.
After the season, Beamer said, "you sit down and get all the information and talk to anyone that you feel like you need to talk to. Then you make a decision."
Beamer said Vick understands he has more work to do before turning pro.
"I think in our conversation, he understands that he needs to continue to improve as a quarterback before he's ready to use his talents at the next level," Beamer said.
The Hokies play at Syracuse on Saturday night.
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