Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray issued a public apology on Wednesday after facing backlash for posting photos of himself wearing a Michael Vick jersey while posing with his dog. The images, shared on Murray’s Instagram before being deleted, sparked criticism due to Vick’s criminal history involving dogfighting.
“I saw how it affected people and … decided to take it down,” Murray said during a press conference. “I apologize to anybody and whoever I affected … with that.”
Michael Vick, a former NFL star, served nearly two years in federal prison after pleading guilty in 2007 to operating a dogfighting ring. Court documents described Vick’s direct involvement in the abuse and killing of dogs that underperformed. Since his release, Vick has publicly expressed remorse and has worked with animal welfare organizations to raise awareness about animal cruelty. Many of the dogs rescued from his operation were eventually rehabilitated.
Like Vick, Murray was also a No. 1 overall draft pick and has previously credited Vick as a key influence on his playing style. The photo in question was taken at the Cardinals’ stadium before a recent game, and the dog seen with him is believed to be an American bully, a breed related to pit bulls.
Murray stressed that he does not support animal cruelty or dogfighting. “In no way, shape, or form am I condoning that,” he told reporters, adding that his own two dogs “get treated like kings.”
Vick, whose NFL career ended in 2015, has since become a coach and television analyst. While his legacy remains controversial, some sports figures have acknowledged his post-prison efforts toward redemption and advocacy.