Jesse Jackson urges Vick reinstatement

NORFOLK, Va., Aug. 5 (UPI) -- The Rev. Jesse Jackson says former Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick should be allowed to return to the NFL immediately because he has paid his debt to society.

Vick was recently released from federal prison after serving nearly two years for his role in financing a dog fighting ring. However, the National Football League says it won't decide until six weeks into the 2009 season if he can play again. The former starting quarterback was released by the Atlanta Falcons.

Jackson told The (Norfolk) Virginian-Pilot Tuesday night that Vick needs to get back to work in his profession.

"Teams need quarterbacks, and quarterbacking is what he does," Jackson said.

Vick has been trying to find a team that will sign him, but has not had any luck as of yet.