Michael Vick’s mother, Brenda, reminisces about Thanksgiving last year, a time of sadness and emerging optimism for the family. The former NFL quarterback had just returned to Newport News, Virginia, for a cousin’s funeral. However, as the holiday approached, Vick received an offer to become the football coach at Norfolk State University, one of the historically Black universities in the area. Having transitioned to a comfortable role as an NFL analyst with Fox Sports since his retirement in 2017, Vick had long harbored a desire to return to the sport in a coaching capacity. While he had previously been approached by Sacramento State, it was Norfolk State where he felt a true fit.
In the family kitchen, amid frying a turkey, Vick expressed his excitement about this new chapter. His mother noted his confidence and competitiveness, highlighting her belief in his capability to succeed and the family’s enthusiasm for his plans.
As of now, Vick’s Spartans are currently struggling with a record of 1-7 ahead of their upcoming game against Delaware State, which boasts a more favorable 5-3 record. Both Vick and Jackson, another NFL superstar turned coach at Delaware State, represent a growing trend among HBCUs to leverage the star power of former athletes to transform their football programs and enhance their profiles during financially challenging times.
The hiring of Vick and Jackson reflects a gamble that their celebrity status can rejuvenate their respective programs, despite their inexperience. This approach echoes the successful model established by Deion Sanders at Jackson State, where he revitalized the university’s football program through strategic recruiting and increased visibility.
Norfolk State has historically faced challenges, including limited football success since becoming a Division I FCS program in 1997, with few winning seasons to its name. Athletic Director Melody Webb opted for a “shock to the system” approach, believing that Vick’s star power could bring in talent and a new energy to the program. Vick’s earlier coaching experiences and his desire to guide young athletes prepared him well for the role.
Despite the team’s on-field struggles, Norfolk State has witnessed a surge in season ticket sales and a rise in media interest, indicating a boost in community morale and engagement. Vick’s efforts to personally support his players, including providing breakfast and snacks on game days, further reflect his commitment to their well-being and development.
Similarly, Delaware State has seen an impressive increase in season ticket sales since Jackson’s arrival, with applications from prospective students rising. Jackson, influenced by the successful revitalization at Jackson State, has also capitalized on his connections to attract better athletes and corporate sponsorships.
While the journey for both Norfolk State and Delaware State is still in its early stages, the excitement generated by their high-profile coaches has renewed hope among their communities and fan bases. Both schools aim to emerge as competitive forces within the landscape of HBCU football, leveraging the celebrity and experience of these former NFL stars to create more sustainable programs.
As these institutions navigate ongoing financial and structural challenges, the bold strategies they employ signal a potential turning point, fostering optimism for a brighter and more successful future in college football.