Michael Vick, former NFL quarterback and four-time Pro Bowler, has been named the new head coach of Norfolk State University. The announcement was made Tuesday on Vick’s Facebook page, where he expressed his excitement about the opportunity.
NFL Legend Michael Vick Returns to Lead Spartans
“It’s an honor to announce that I’ll be the new head coach of Norfolk State University… looking forward to coming back home,” Vick said in his post.
The move brings Vick back to his roots in Virginia, where he grew up in Newport News, less than an hour from Norfolk State. This marks Vick’s first official coaching role at the collegiate level.
Norfolk State, a historically Black university (HBCU), competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) within the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The Spartans are looking to rebound after a disappointing 4-8 season.
Vick joins a growing list of former NFL stars taking head coaching roles at HBCUs. Deion Sanders previously revitalized Jackson State University’s football program, while Eddie George is now in his fourth season leading Tennessee State University.
Fans are hopeful about what Vick brings to the table. One fan joked on social media, “My Auntie is already praying for Michael Vick. So, basically, he’s gonna have a STELLAR season!”
Despite his lack of coaching experience, Vick’s history as a game-changer on the field has generated excitement. He revolutionized the quarterback position during his NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Vick still holds the NFL record for rushing yards by a quarterback with 6,109, though Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson is closing in on that milestone.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Vick’s career has seen its share of triumphs and setbacks. After leading Virginia Tech to the national championship game in 1999, he became the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft. However, his career was derailed in 2007 after his involvement in an illegal dogfighting ring, leading to a prison sentence.
Following his release, Vick made a remarkable NFL comeback, most notably with the Eagles, before retiring in 2017. Since then, he has worked as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports.
As he steps into his new role, Vick says he’s ready for the challenge. “I’m looking forward to coming back home,” he said, signaling a fresh start for Norfolk State’s football program.