'Any publicity is good publicity," an old saying goes. The recentlegal proceedings and negative press coming Michael Vick's way isputting that theory to rest.
The Atlanta Falcons' star quarterback is no stranger to themedia, though, as his stellar moves on the field earn him loads ofpress coverage.
But in light of his recent indictment on federal dog-fightingcharges, the NFL superstar is finding his descent from grace to be ameteoric plunge. Vick's alleged involvement in dog fighting causedthe NFL last week to order him to stay away from training camp.
The repercussions from his actions have trickled down to hisstanding in the endorsement and collectible world, with companieseither cutting ties or distancing themselves from the three-time ProBowl QB.
In a bold move by trading-card giant Upper Deck, Vick cards willbe removed from future releases of UD and Fleer sets.
"This is a very unique and nearly unprecedented situation we arein," said Don Williams, public relations manager at Upper Deck,"Obviously, we want to stress Michael Vick is innocent until provenguilty, but the overwhelming outpouring from the public dictates wemake these moves."
The California-based company also has pulled Vick memorabiliafrom its Web site and online store.
The decision wasn't easy. In a statement released last Friday,Upper Deck stated, "The allegations alone have resulted in anoutpouring of very strong emotion with our organization and amongthe collecting community. We believe collectors will agree andsupport this decision as being the best course of action for ourfootball business."
Reebok, the official uniform supplier for the NFL, is takingsteps to stop sales of Vick's No. 7 jersey, while Nike has suspendedVick's endorsements and stopped the sale of Vick-related products,including shoes.
With Vick merchandise vanishing from shelves, is it likely theitems currently in circulation will escalate in value? No, saysDavid Lee of Beckett Football Series.
Vick cards have witnessed a decrease in value over the last fewyears and the indictment saw their value plummet even more, makingit a buyers' market.
"There has definitely been a secondary market reaction bycollectors," said Lee.
Vick's rookie cards from the 200l season peaked at $6,641 in2005. Their current value is $4,115.
"Vick's indictment has already caused collectors to distance[themselves from his merchandise]. If he misses a big part of theseason, his cards can drop even more in value," said Lee.
"If companies should happen to reinstate Vick merchandise, thatmay spark a renewed interest, but only if he's on the field andplaying well."
doneal@suntimes.com
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