Before I start, let me say one thing: I have been as outspoken as anyone against Michael Vick. I have said numerous times that his actions were wrong, and he needed to be punished.

Now that I've gotten that out of the way, I would like to officially announce that I am not only looking forward to the Michael Vick Experience returning to the NFL in a few years, I am also hoping that we see an all new Vick.

For those of you who have been paying attention, you'll know that I've previously said that any active professional athlete who is convicted of anything more than a traffic ticket deserves a lifetime ban.

So why am I backing off all of a sudden?

Michael Vick has participated in a lot of highly illegal activities. When people do that, there are consequences for their crimes. So far, Vick is looking at a projected 12-18 months in jail, 2 or more years suspension from the NFL, and millions of dollars in lost salary. While the actual jail sentence may be less than some people want, Vick had more to lose than most people in this situation, and he lost almost all of it. He is losing his freedom for over a year, a large fortune, and what is definitely one of the best and most exclusive jobs in the world, NFL quarterback.

If and when Vick makes his return to the NFL, I want to see a guy who has matured both off AND on the field. I want to see a Vick who has a little more awareness on the field, can hit the open man in stride, and only runs when he has to.

But more importantly, I want to see a Michael Vick who is a model citizen, and ends up being the Michael Vick we thought he was, when we begged for him to help straighten out his younger brother Marcus. There is something to be said for good guys like Peyton Manning, who has always been a model citizen, as well as being a great player. But if there is something better, it's a story of redemption, repentance and resurrection.

America has seen its fair share of lowlife athletes and wasted potential, from John Rocker to Marty McSorley, Tank Johnson to Jeff Allison, Pacman Jones to Vick himself. But what we HAVEN'T seen very much of is guys who get in trouble, pay the price, and move on with their lives. Stories of guys turning their life around are few and far between, and we deserve some good news for a change.

Whether or not Vick's recent apology was truly from the heart, we will find out in a few years. But at this point, we should all set aside our contempt for him. Don't hate the man, hate the actions. If he can turn his life around and once again become the respectable and dignified star that we all thought he was, then all of society is better off for it.