Michael Vick, the former NFL quarterback renowned for his dynamic playing style, is set to return to Hampton Roads, this time as the head football coach at Norfolk State University. Sources confirmed this news on Tuesday evening, and Vick himself made the announcement via social media shortly after.
Vick, a Newport News native, initially made waves in high school, impressing as a quarterback at Ferguson and Warwick high schools. He later propelled Virginia Tech to significant heights, leading the team to an undefeated regular season in 1999 and securing a spot in the national championship game.
He entered the NFL Draft in 2001 and was selected as the first overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons. Vick’s groundbreaking approach to the quarterback position included becoming the first QB to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season, a feat he accomplished in 2006. However, his career faced a setback in 2007 when he served time in prison due to charges related to dogfighting. He made a triumphant return to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and earned the league’s Comeback Player of the Year award in 2010. After a successful career that spanned stints with the Jets and Steelers, Vick retired from professional football in 2017 and has since transitioned into a role as an NFL analyst for FOX Sports.
In addition to his sports career, Vick has become an advocate for animal rights, collaborating with organizations to promote the welfare of animals and to support legislation aimed at preventing cruelty.
Excitement is building within the Norfolk State community regarding Vick’s new position. Despite having no prior coaching experience, many fans see potential in him to enhance the Spartans’ profile, drawing comparisons to the turnaround seen at Jackson State University under Deion Sanders. Local fan Donald Coleman expressed optimism, stating, “I think he is going to be doing something better with the people.”
Norfolk State University has yet to publicly confirm the hiring, but an official statement is anticipated to be released soon.
This move presents a hopeful new chapter not only for Michael Vick but also for Norfolk State’s football program. The potential for Vick to inspire and uplift emerging athletes could create a transformative experience for both the team and its supporters.