Former NFL star quarterback Michael Vick has revealed that he will take on the role of head coach at Norfolk State University. The 44-year-old Newport News native made this announcement via his Facebook page, expressing his excitement about returning to his hometown and leading the Spartans football program.
While Vick’s appointment hasn’t yet been officially confirmed by Norfolk State, his declaration has already generated interest. Vick’s coaching experience is limited; he briefly held an offensive coordinator position for the Atlanta Legends in the now-defunct Alliance of American Football during 2018, but he ultimately never took on that role.
As a groundbreaking player in the NFL, Vick enjoyed a career that featured 13 seasons, renowned for his exceptional rushing ability and dual-threat capabilities as a quarterback. He is recognized as the all-time leading rushing quarterback with 6,109 yards, although current NFL star Lamar Jackson is close behind. Drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001, he signed a lucrative contract in 2004. However, his career faced serious challenges in 2007 due to legal issues stemming from an illegal dogfighting ring, which led to a significant prison sentence and subsequent NFL suspension.
After his release, Vick successfully returned to the NFL, notably playing five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles before retiring in 2017. As he takes on this new position, he aims to rejuvenate Norfolk State’s football program, which finished with a disappointing 4-8 record this past season.
Norfolk State University, a historically Black institution, is part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and competes at the Division I level in college football. Vick’s return to athletics, particularly as a coach, marks an important step in not only revitalizing a college program but also in setting a positive example for young athletes who follow in his footsteps.
This new venture reflects a hopeful turning point for Vick, who can use his experience and unique insights from his storied career to inspire and mentor the next generation of football players. His transformation from player to coach emphasizes the possibilities of redemption and growth, offering an opportunity for both himself and the athletes he will lead.