Ex-NFL star helped kill canines, report says. Imprisoned former Atlanta Falcons star Michael Vick helped drown dogs by forcing their heads into a five-gallon water bucket, a new report says. Though Vick first claimed that he never participated in the actual killing of animals connected with his illegal Bad Newz Kennels fighting ring, a U.S. Department of Agriculture statement says the ex-quarterback admitted hanging dogs that didn’t fight well and using family pets as bait for aggressive dogs. Vick is due in a Virginia court tomorrow where he’s expected to plead guilty to state charges of torturing animals and promoting dog-fighting. The former star is already serving federal time until summer of next year. Formerly the NFL’s highest-paid player, Vick reportedly washes pots and pans for 12 cents an hour.