Former NFL star Michael Vick has agreed to become the head coach at Norfolk State, marking his first coaching role at any level. The 44-year-old Vick, who hails from nearby Newport News, announced the news on his Facebook page, expressing his excitement to return home.
Vick, a standout at Virginia Tech, enjoyed a successful NFL career, earning four Pro Bowl selections during his 13 seasons with Atlanta, Philadelphia, the New York Jets, and Pittsburgh. Known for his dual-threat abilities as a quarterback, Vick played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the position.
Despite facing legal troubles related to a dogfighting ring that led to an 18-month prison sentence, Vick staged a comeback upon his NFL return in 2009. He was named the AP Comeback Player of the Year in 2010 with the Eagles, although his peak performance years were deemed to be in the past. Vick retired from professional football in 2017 and has since been an advocate against animal cruelty while working as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports.
The hiring of Vick by Norfolk State, as reported by the Virginian-Pilot, comes after the university parted ways with former coach Dawson Odums following a 4-8 season. Norfolk State, a historically Black school competing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, has made one appearance in the FCS playoffs, falling to in-state rival Old Dominion in 2011.
Prior to accepting the position at Norfolk State, Vick also engaged in discussions with Sacramento State regarding their vacant head coaching role.
As Vick embarks on this new chapter in his football career, his appointment at Norfolk State signals a significant development in the coaching landscape, bringing a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the Spartans program.
