Michael Vick has recently made headlines by accepting the position of head coach at Norfolk State University, marking his return to the football scene after a notable NFL career. Vick, 44, shared the news on his Facebook page, expressing excitement about coming back to his roots in Virginia, where he grew up in Newport News.
Vick’s football journey began at Virginia Tech, where he made a name for himself before moving on to the NFL, where he played 13 seasons as a quarterback for teams including the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers. His dynamic playing style revolutionized the quarterback position, proving that quarterbacks could be effective both as passers and runners.
However, Vick’s career faced significant challenges, including an 18-month prison sentence related to his involvement in a dogfighting ring. His release in 2009 was followed by a remarkable comeback, where he was honored as the AP Comeback Player of the Year in 2010. Since retiring in 2017, he has actively spoken out against animal cruelty and worked as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports.
Norfolk State recently parted ways with coach Dawson Odums after a challenging 4-8 season, and Vick’s hiring aims to reinvigorate the program within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The team has had limited historical success, with only one appearance in the FCS playoffs to date.
This coaching opportunity serves as a new chapter for Vick, who has expressed a desire to contribute positively to the sport and his community. With his wealth of experience and inspirational story, there is hope that Vick can lead Norfolk State to new heights while also providing a strong role model for young athletes.
In summary, Michael Vick is set to embark on an exciting coaching journey at Norfolk State University, aiming to transform the football program while drawing from his extensive experiences in the NFL. His story of redemption and commitment to bettering himself and others may resonate well with both players and fans alike.