Fallen stars and their redemption
Michael Vick, great player, probably one of the best until he decided that he was untouchable, that conviction did not go far, he was convicted of gambling and dog-fighting charges.
Road to redemption: Most Americans knew little about the nation’s dog-fighting subculture until Vick’s case. The magnitude of the animal cruelty shocked the public. He served 18 months in prison and lost his $130 million contract and millions more in endorsements. He fell into bankruptcy. When the NFL allowed him to resume his career — over the protest of animal rights activists — he started over as a backup for the Eagles. He took all the requisite PR steps, expressing remorse in the media (most notably his “60 Minutes” interview) and participating in charitable causes.
Outcome: Minimal redemption. After one season as a low-profile reserve, he’s eager to assume a starting role. Public outrage over his case has subsided, but he must accomplish much more, and more and more 
on and off the field to regain full popularity.
Barry Bonds, never really liked baseball, but I liked his style, until rumors surfaced about his steroids abuse, what a looser! Alleged, yea alleged! steroid abuse, perjury!
Road to redemption: The BALCO steroid distribution case implicated Bonds, Jason Giambi, Marion Jones, Bill Romanowski and other athletes as abusers. In the face of substantial evidence, Bonds denied he knowingly used performance-enhancing drugs. Federal investigators didn’t buy his story, and Bonds was later indicted for perjury and obstruction of justice. That case is still pending.
Outcome: No redemption. He became baseball’s all-time career home run leader, but finished his career with the steroid cloud over his head. He hoped to continue playing, but no team offered him a contract. Some Giants fans seem willing to forgive his alleged PED abuse, but he remains an outcast in the sport, as he should be!
Ray Lewis, great linebacker he was Charged with double murder. Apparently, he just hang around with the wrong croud, most of the times that is enough to get you in big trouble!
Road to redemption: Lewis copped a plea to obstructing a police investigation, agreeing to testify against his cohorts in their trial for stabbing two men in a 2000 nightclub brawl. Lewis plowed on with his career as middle linebacker of the Baltimore Ravens, leading the NFL in tackles the next season. The league honored him as its Defensive Player of the Year. He led the Ravens to victory in Super Bowl XXXV and was named the game’s MVP. He’s been named to the Pro Bowl 11 times and is regarded as one the best team leaders the league’s ever seen.
Outcome: Full redemption. He’s expressed regret over the death of the two stabbing victims, but also anger over his prosecution. After this ordeal, he became more active in Baltimore charities and churches. In time, he regained his commercial viability, too.
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