In Week 13, Vick made his return to the lineup in the third quarter of a contest with the Houston Texans. He completed 8-of-11 passes for 60 yards, but the Falcons came up short, losing 17-14. He returned to the starting lineup the following week against the Carolina Panthers and reminded everyone why he was perhaps the most unique weapon in the league, compiling 141 yards on the ground on 14 carries with one touchdown. By all accounts, Vick proved that his leg was back to 100% and he was ready to pick up where he left off.
Over the five games he played in 2003, however, Vick completed just 50-of-100 passes for 585 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions. The Falcons finished with a 5-11 record and ended the season in last place in the NFC South.