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Parting gesture by Vick causes stir

ATLANTA — As Atlanta Falcons players walked off the field Sunday, after losing 31-13 to the New Orleans Saints, fans lustily booed the team. A frustrated Michael Vick shouted at fans and then issued an obscene gesture, first with one hand, then the other. Such actions usually draw a fine from the NFL.

Vick's actions were captured by Fox network cameras. Reporters were not allowed on the field, so they were unaware of the incident when Vick was questioned after the game. The Falcons issued a statement from Vick on Sunday night:

"First and foremost, I would like to apologize for my inappropriate actions with fans today. I was frustrated and upset at how the game was going for my team, and that frustration came out the wrong way. That's not what I'm about. That's not what the Atlanta Falcons are about. I simply lost my cool in the heat of the moment. I apologize and look forward to putting this incident behind me."

The NFL's Greg Aiello, the vice president of public relations, said the incident had not yet been reviewed. Vick could face a fine from the NFL under the league's sportsmanship conduct rules. For excessive use of profane language or obscene gestures, players are fined $5,000 for a first offense.

The Falcons have now lost four in a row.