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Vick controversy rumbles on

Michael Vick has told journalists that he is on the brink of signing a deal which will see him playing in the NFL next season, although he is yet to disclose the name of the team involved.

The decision to reinstate Vick is one which will continue to divide opinion for a long time to come; some say he deserves a second chance, whilst some continue to feel personally outraged over the issue.

Several teams have been quick to distance themselves from speculation linking them to Vick, including the Cleveland Browns. Eric Mangini appeared to cite his satisfaction with quarterbacks Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson as the primary reason for the rejection of any potential deal with Vick but it's likely that other factors (some of which no doubt governed by the demands of a carefully controlled PR machine) played their part too.

The Cleveland Browns can be backed for success in the AFC Conference Winner Market at odds of [55.0] and the AFC North Winner Market at [6.2].

Mason emerges from retirement

Elsewhere in the NFL, Derrick Mason has announced his intention to emerge from retirement just three weeks after bringing an end to his career. It is thought that Mason contacted Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti early on Saturday morning and his decision to make a comeback obviously met with no opposition from those in charge.

Mason's assertion that he felt he had "left something undone" seems a far cry from his statement just a few weeks ago that he had "seen it all and done it all" but, in all fairness, the permanent nature of his decision was questioned during the days immediately following his announcement.

The Baltimore Ravens are available to back at odds of [14.5] in the AFC Conference Winner Market, with the New England Patriots the current favorites at [4.6]. Mason was an instrumental part of the side which reached the AFC Championship game last year and Ravens fans, who gave him a rousing reception when he entered the practice field yesterday, will hope he can pick up where he left off once the new season gets firmly underway.

Vikings agree deal with Harvin

First-round draft pick Percy Harvin has penned a five-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings. The versatile player was one of the first players to emerge for practice yesterday after arriving in Minnesota from Florida.

Harvin is likely to be a key weapon in the Vikings' attacking artillery this season but he will need to work hard over the following weeks to ensure he's physically, and mentally, up to the task. Harvin himself revealed that he is trying to get "back in shape" and will be looking to work on his speed in particular before the season starts.

The Vikings are currently favorites to win the NFC North at odds of [2.66] and Harvin's progress, if all goes according to plan over the days and weeks to come, can only improve their chances of success.