Michael Vick, a college football phenom and former NFL star, has become the new head coach of Norfolk State University. The historically black FCS school in Virginia hired Vick, 44, whose NFL career was interrupted when he served nearly two years in prison for being involved in a dog fighting ring.
Vick confirmed his hiring on social media, stating that he’s “looking forward to coming back home” to his home state of Virginia. His former high school coach and mentor Tommy Reamon expressed excitement about Vick’s coaching abilities, saying he’s charismatic and personable.
The hiring echoes similar moves by other HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) in recent years, which have handed their football programs to high-profile former NFL stars like Deion Sanders and Eddie George. Vick will replace Dawson Odums, who was 15-31 in four seasons with Norfolk State.
Vick’s coaching career is seen as a comeback story, following his release from prison in 2009 and his return to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles. He played seven more seasons in the league before becoming a starter for the team from 2010 to 2012. Vick was recently selected to the College Football Hall of Fame and has expressed his passion for coaching.
Vick will bring his leadership skills and experience to Norfolk State, replacing Odums who had a losing record with the program. Vick’s hiring is seen as a positive move for the school’s football program, given his charisma and coaching abilities.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6002201/2024/12/17/michael-vick-hired-norfolk-state