In 2002, Michael Vick took over as the full-time starting quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons. Making great strides from his rookie year, Vick put together a solid second season and was named to the Pro Bowl. Although his completion percentage was less than stellar, he passed for nearly 3,000 yards and 16 touchdowns to just eight interceptions over 15 games. He also ran the ball 113 times for 777 yards and eight touchdowns.
Vick had numerous highlights, including setting an NFL record for the most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game with 173 against the Minnesota Vikings.

He also began the season with a six-game streak without an interception.

Vick's Falcons qualified for the postseason, and on January 4, 2003, he led the team to an upset win over the favored Green Bay 27–7 in the first round. Vick's season, however, came to a close a week later with a 20–6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC divisional playoff game.