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NFL Star Kyler Murray Apologizes For Unfortunate Photo

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Sep 18, 2025 1:06 PM ET

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray recently made waves - and a lot of people angry - by posting a photo of himself that many found unsavory. He's now apologizing for it.

The offending image was of Murray wearing a Michael Vick Virginia Tech jersey while posing next to a pitbull. Vick infamously bankrolled the Bad Newz Kennels dog fighting ring, which saw dozens of dogs (mostly pitbulls) killed or even executed and dozens more needing rescue when it was finally shut down. Vick went to prison for various crimes over it and remains a pariah in many circles - particularly among animal lovers.

In a statement this week, Murray apologized for offending anyone with his photo and made it clear that he does not condone animal cruelty or dogfighting. He said that he simply admired Vick while he was growing up and said that his dogs are "treated like kings."

"In no way, shape or form do I condone animal cruelty or dogfighting or whatever it is," Murray said. "For me personally, y'all saw me wear the Michael Vick jersey, a player I admired very much growing up… My dogs, Trunks and Swoosh, they both get treated like kings. In no way, shape or form am I condoning that. I saw how it affected people and decided to take it down."

PHILADELPHIA - AUGUST 14: Michael Vick of the Philadelphia Eagles speaks at a press conference at the NovaCare Complex on August 14, 2009 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Vick signed a one-year contract, with a second year option, with the Eagles. (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)Getty

Michael Vick's polarizing legacy

Vick burst onto the national scene as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback at Virginia Tech, where his athleticism, arm strength, and ability to improvise made him one of the most exciting college players in the late 1990s. He was selected first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2001 NFL Draft and quickly became famous both for his electrifying rushing ability and his prowess in the passing game. He made multiple Pro Bowls with the Falcons and was seen as changing what quarterbacks could do with mobility and playmaking.

However, in 2007 Vick was indicted on federal charges related to operating an interstate dog-fighting ring, known as “Bad Newz Kennels.” He pleaded guilty to financing, participating in, and supporting dogfights—actions that included killing dogs and other cruel treatment. He served about 21 months in federal prison, followed by legal consequences at the state level. After his release, the NFL reinstated him and Vick signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he mounted a comeback, winning the 2010 Comeback Player of the Year award, followed by stints with the Jets and Steelers. He now serves as the head coach position at Norfolk State.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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