Union May Save Vick $22M

Arguing that the collective bargaining agreement signed last year by the NFL player's union protected all bonus money, Michael Vick's lawyers fought the Falcons' ongoing attempt to recover $22 million in bonuses it had paid the quarterback and convicted dog abuser. The CBA is alleged to override any such forfeiture, even if it is permitted in the player's contract.

The case for forfeiture is that Vick knew when he signed with the Falcons that he was engaged in criminal wrongdoing. Vick's sentencing for dogfight-related criminal conspiracy will occur on December 10, but the fate of his $22 million should be decided by the end of next week, said the leader of the special arbitration hearing. (More NFL stories.)