Arizona Cardinals Coach Jon Gannon Reflects on the Emotional Impact of Michael Vick's Imprisonment on Football

Cardinals head coach Jon Gannon disclosed that he emotionally disengaged from football in 2007, coinciding with Michael Vick's incarceration. His detachment did not stem from a playoff defeat or a missed promotion; rather, it was triggered by Vick's legal troubles. In a recent press conference, just weeks after his intense exchange with running back Emari Demercado, Gannon's response to when he started suppressing his emotions in coaching was revealing. “2007, when our quarterback went to jail,” he stated matter-of-factly, leaving the room in silence before the session concluded. This pivotal year marked Gannon’s debut as an NFL coach, serving as a defensive assistant for the Atlanta Falcons. That season, Vick faced charges related to his involvement in a dogfighting ring, leading to nearly two years in federal prison. If the Cardinals display an emotionally flat performance this season, it may reflect Gannon's emotional withdrawal, which traces back to the repercussions of Vick's arrest.