Michael Vick flexes on social media with official coaching bio photo

Vick brings a unique narrative to Norfolk State. His decision to start his coaching career at an HBCU comes full circle, as he bypassed Norfolk State for Virginia Tech during his high school years. Now, he returns to uplift a program that has struggled for relevance since moving from Division II to the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference in 1997.

Norfolk State has only one FCS playoff appearance, and its lone MEAC title in 2011 was vacated due to the use of ineligible players. The Spartans are in need of both leadership and inspiration and are betting on Vick’s star power and potential to attract talent and build a competitive program.

Despite no real coaching experience, Vick’s career can't be overlooked. His path mirrors recent trends in HBCU football with Sanders leading the way and now at Colorado. Eddie George followed after leading Tennessee State to a conference title and FCS playoff berth. He has since made the jump to Bowling Green this past March.

If Norfolk State can replicate or even surpass those achievements, it will be an outstanding win for Vick. While challenges like limited NIL resources are still a very real subject, Vick’s connection to the community and abroad will be a game changer. 

Norfolk State opens the season against Townson on August 28 (7 p.m. ET on ESPN).