As for buying a jersey bearing the name of a man now despised by many for his role in killing dogs, Calabro said that was an argument fueled by adults and did not concern his son.
There was no shortage of opinions, as Vick fans and critics weighed in on a debate revolving around two beloved facets of American culture - dogs and football.
Joanne Branco eyed the racks of green-and-black Vick jerseys and said she would never buy one.
"I don't like the idea that he was so cruel to the animals, and I don't think he should get a second chance," she said.
But her grandson Salvatore said he plays quarterback and loves to run with the ball - just like Vick.
"I love animals just as much as her. I don't think what he did was right, but I like him as a player," Salvatore, 12, said.
Would he want a Vick T-shirt?
"I would have to see how he did first," Salvatore said.
As for her vow not to buy Vick gear, Branco conceded, "he could probably talk me into it because he's my grandson, but I wouldn't be too happy about it."
Another shopper, Caprice Pulliam, said that if Vick was trying to "get his life together, you should give him a second chance."
Store manager Paul Usher said inquiries about Vick jerseys started coming in Friday, a day after he signed. By early yesterday dozens of his jerseys hung from racks, adult versions going for $79.99, youth sizes for $49.99. Vick T-shirts cost about $20.
Several customers and even a salesperson marveled at how quickly the merchandise got to the floor.
Meanwhile, outside the Eagles' practice facility, some fans wondered how quickly Vick could get to the end zone.
His supporters talked about second chances, forgiving mistakes and the Super Bowl.
