Michael Vick, a former NFL quarterback known for his electrifying play, is set to become the next head coach at Norfolk State University. Despite having no formal coaching experience, Vick believes he has the leadership skills needed for the role. Vick, a Virginia native, had a successful college career at Virginia Tech and was drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. He played 13 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles, earning four Pro Bowl selections and setting records for rushing yards among quarterbacks. Despite his success on the field, Vick’s career was tarnished by his involvement in a dog fighting ring in 2007, which led to his release from the Falcons and a stint in federal prison. However, he made a successful comeback with the Eagles, leading them to a division title in 2010. Since retiring in 2016, Vick has worked as an analyst for Fox Sports.
Vick will join a growing trend of former NFL stars coaching at historically Black colleges and universities, following in the footsteps of Deion Sanders and Eddie George. Sanders had a successful two-year stint at Jackson State before leaving for Colorado, while George has coached at Tennessee State for four seasons. Vick’s hiring represents an opportunity for him to share his knowledge and experience with young players and potentially inspire the next generation of dual-threat quarterbacks.
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