NORFOLK, Va. — Excitement is brewing among football enthusiasts in the 757 area as former star quarterback Michael Vick is set to return to Hampton Roads, this time taking on the role of head coach at Norfolk State University. Sources confirmed Vick’s appointment to News 3, and he later took to social media to announce his new position.
Vick, a standout athlete from both Ferguson and Warwick high schools, rose to prominence as the star quarterback at Virginia Tech. He led the Hokies to an undefeated regular season in 1999 and played in the national championship game that year, cementing his place in college football history.
In 2001, Vick declared for the NFL Draft and was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons. Known for his revolutionary playing style, he became the first quarterback to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season in 2006, changing how the position was viewed.
His career faced a significant setback in 2007 due to legal issues stemming from a dogfighting conviction, leading to a 21-month prison sentence. However, Vick made a remarkable comeback with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2009 and earned the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 2010. He concluded his playing career with the Jets and Steelers, announcing his retirement in 2017. Since then, he has served as an NFL analyst for FOX Sports.
In recent years, Vick has also taken on the role of an animal rights activist, working with organizations like the humane society to promote animal welfare and advocate for stricter animal cruelty laws.
Tommy Reamon, who coached Vick in high school, shared that in just 72 hours, numerous coaches reached out expressing their desire to work with him or to avoid playing against Norfolk State. Although Vick lacks formal coaching experience, the community and Norfolk State campus are abuzz with anticipation for his leadership.
“I think he is going to be doing something better with the people,” says NSU fan Donald Coleman, reflecting the hope and enthusiasm surrounding Vick’s new role. Many see parallels between Vick’s hiring and the positive turnaround witnessed at Jackson State University under Deion Sanders.
While Norfolk State has yet to release an official statement, an announcement regarding Vick’s hiring is expected soon.
This development brings a wave of optimism to the Norfolk State football program and the community as a whole, as fans and stakeholders look forward to a brighter future under Vick’s mentorship and innovative approach to the game. The potential for transformation within the program is high, and fans are hopeful that Vick will inspire players and elevate the Spartans’ reputation.