• October 1, 2009

Looks like Michael Vick's reputation may not be bouncing back so fast, after all.

ESPN and other news outlets are reporting that Nike is denying any contractual relationship with Vick, despite announcements earlier from Vick's representatives that the Philadelphia Eagles player has a new deal with the sporting-goods giant.

Instead, Nike says it is simply supplying him with products, as it does any number of athletes not under contract. Nike's endorsement deal with Vick ended back in August 2007, after Vick announced he would plead guilty to charges arising from dog-fighting.--Sarah Mahoney