Michael Vick, a former NFL Pro Bowl quarterback, has declared that he will take on the role of head coach for Norfolk State University. The 44-year-old, who hails from Newport News, made the announcement on his Facebook page on Tuesday, expressing his excitement about returning to his roots. “It’s an honor to announce that I’ll be the new head coach of Norfolk State University… looking forward to coming back home,” he wrote.
While Norfolk State has not yet confirmed Vick’s appointment, CNN has sought a comment from the university regarding the announcement.
Throughout his post-NFL career, Vick has not held any official coaching positions. In 2018, he was set to serve as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Legends in the now-defunct Alliance of American Football, but this opportunity fell through as the league folded shortly after.
Vick’s NFL career spanned 13 seasons, during which he became known for transforming the quarterback position with his remarkable dual-threat capability. He currently holds the record for the most rushing yards by a quarterback, totaling 6,109 yards, though he faces stiff competition from Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Vick was selected as the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, where he signed a substantial 10-year, $130 million contract in 2004. His career took a downward turn in 2007 due to his involvement in an illegal dogfighting ring, leading to an indefinite suspension from the NFL. After pleading guilty to federal charges and serving 21 months in prison, Vick was reinstated in 2009 and found a new beginning with the Philadelphia Eagles.
As he embarks on this new coaching journey, Vick aims to revitalize the Norfolk State football program, which struggled with a 4-8 record last season. The Spartans compete at the Division I Football Championship Subdivision level, which ranks just below the Football Bowl Subdivision in college football hierarchy. Notably, Norfolk State is a historically Black university (HBCU) and part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
Vick’s return to coaching is a promising opportunity for both him and Norfolk State. His extensive experience in the NFL could provide valuable insights to the program, and his journey of redemption and resilience could inspire players. This chapter in Vick’s life may strengthen the football culture at Norfolk State and offer a fresh perspective to the team as they strive for improvement.