Only a week since the draft and the Atlanta Falcons are already facing some of their worst fears.

If Virginia prosecutors determine that Vick had knowledge of an alleged dog-fighting ring operating out of a rural property he owns there, Goodell will have no choice but to banish one of the NFL’s most exciting and marketable stars.

It could be four games. It could be eight. It could be longer. Animal abuse in Virginia is punishable by up to one year in prison.

No doubt the Falcons are biting their nails with anticipation. Even if Vick does get nothing more than a slap on the wrist from the DA of Virginia, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell figures to be less than forgiving. Already he has made it a point to suspend players who break the law, and Vick doesn’t exactly have a spotless image.

During the season last year he was caught by cameras while giving fans — his own fans — the double bird. And earlier this offseason he was stopped by Miami airport security with a water bottle that included a hidden compartment that smelled like marijuana.

This all begs the question, Do you think the Falcons regret trading Shaub, now? Next in line is Joey Harrington if Vick would be suspended.

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