Kyler Murray faces backlash over Instagram post in Michael Vick jersey

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray addressed one of his recent controversial social media posts. 

In a since-deleted Instagram post, Murray was shown standing next to his dog — a pit bull — while wearing a Michael Vick jersey.

The Atlanta Falcons selected Vick No. 1 overall in the 2001 NFL Draft, but his career was halted when he was sentenced to federal prison in 2007 for his role in a dog-fighting ring.

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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.  (Jim Dedmon/Imagn Images)

During his latest media availability, Murray sought to ease any animal cruelty concerns his photo may have raised.

“In no way, shape or form do I condone animal cruelty or dog fighting 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.”

MICHAEL VICK SHUTS DOWN VIRGINIA TECH RUMORS, REMAINS FOCUSED ON TASK AT NORFOLK STATE

Murray added that he took note of the response his photo elicited, which prompted him to remove the post. 

“In no way, shape or form am I condoning that. I saw how it affected people and decided to take it down,” he said.

Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High Aug. 25, 2024, in Denver, Colo. (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

The jersey in the now-deleted image appeared to be a throwback replica from Vick’s college career at Virginia Tech. Murray’s dog sat near his feet alongside a luxury designer bag.

The NFL reinstated Vick after his prison term ended. He returned to the field and played seven more seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals on the sideline before a game against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium Nov. 26, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. (Ryan Kang/Getty Images)

Vick turned to broadcasting after retiring from the NFL. He later moved into coaching and was named head coach at Norfolk State in December 2024.

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Norfolk State will enter its game against Sacred Heart Sept. 20 with a 1-2 record.

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