Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick has been appointed as the new head coach of Norfolk State University’s football team. Vick, who grew up near Norfolk, Virginia, and had previously expressed interest in coaching, was introduced to lead the Spartans, a program seeking revitalization after limited success in recent years.
Vick’s transition from broadcasting to coaching marks a significant career shift. Since 2017, he has been a regular analyst on Fox NFL Sunday. During the show’s Week 16 airing, Vick became emotional as he announced his departure to pursue the coaching opportunity at Norfolk State. His colleagues congratulated him, expressing mixed emotions over his departure. Vick expressed gratitude for his time at Fox Sports and eagerness to lead and mentor young athletes in his community.
Norfolk State’s athletic director, Melody Webb, and former football player Aaron Rouse extended the surprise offer to Vick, who, despite having no prior coaching experience, is seen as a major asset for the struggling program. The Spartans have had only one playoff appearance since 1997. Vick aims to inspire the team and recruit talent from his home region, following a trend of former NFL stars leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) programs.
Vick will continue to appear on Fox NFL Sunday until the end of the 2024-25 NFL season before fully transitioning to his coaching role. His appointment has garnered support from both his colleagues and the wider community, with encouragement for college recruits to consider playing for Norfolk State under his leadership.
This move signifies a new chapter for both Vick and Norfolk State’s football program, with hopes that his leadership will bring renewed success to the team.
