Abstract
This study examines how media framing of former National Football League (NFL) quarterback Michael Vick changed between the time of his dogfighting allegations (2007) and the year following his release (2009). Drawing on framing theory developed by Erving Goffman, the study analyzes 17 newspaper articles from two periods: the emergence of the allegations in 2007 and the year after Vick’s 2009 release from prison. Using rhetorical criticism, my analysis finds that early coverage relied on accusatory framing emphasizing brutality and moral condemnation and often invoking a racial contract of expectations, while later coverage shifted toward defensive framing that highlighted remorse and redemption. These findings demonstrate how sports media narratives evolve and can reinforce racialized perceptions of athletes.
Advisor
Bostdorff, Denise
Department
Communication Studies
Recommended Citation
Johnson, Christion Isaiah, "A Rhetorical Analysis of of Michael Vick's Media Framing Before and After Prison on Dogfighting Charges" (2026). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 13561.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/13561
Keywords
Michael Vick, Racial Contract, Framing Theory, Rhetoric
Publication Date
2026
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2026 Christion Isaiah Johnson