Michael Vick may have lost a step or two since his days in Atlanta, but he’s still as quick as he’s ever been. Heck, he’s willing to put money on it.
The 34-year-old signal-caller, who was joking with New York Daily News beat writer Manish Mehta Thursday, admitted his 40-yard dash time isn’t what it used to be. But he still thinks he can clock a solid time and keep up with pretty much anyone on the field.
“I’ll be running a 4.4 when I’m 39,” Vick said. “When I’m 39, you come find me . . . and bring some money.”
LeSean McCoy is one player who likely would not take that bet, as Vick reportedly beat out the then 24-year-old in a foot race while with the Eagles last season. And it isn’t just his legs that have remained in top form. According to coach Rex Ryan, his arm isn’t bad, either.
“He’s got to be the youngest 34-year-old there is,” Ryan said. “God touched him. He’s got so much natural ability. It’s amazing … He’s instinctive. He’s still got unbelievable (ability to) escape and he’s still got a bazooka for an arm.”
Despite the fact that he’ll more than likely be designated the backup this season behind Geno Smith, Vick seems optimistic in his future in the league, particularly the amount of gas he has left in the tank.
Vick told Mehta he’s aiming for at least another five years in the pros and waiting for that next opportunity to come where he can once again be the starter.
“I want to play until I’m 40,” he said. “I’m hoping and praying that it (starting) can happen at some point. As of right now, I got to live in the moment. I’m a Jet and I got to make sure that I’m ready to go when there’s an opportunity if I’m needed.”
