The influence of former NFL legends on college football continues to grow. A trend that has been around for a while (Jim Harbaugh being the best example) became uber-popular with Deion Sanders joining the ranks for the Colorado Buffaloes. Now, more big-name talents are taking their talents to the collegiate scene, with Michael Vick the latest name to join the list.
For modern fans, Vick has been a constant as a football analyst on Fox, working the kickoff show with diligence and poise. As a result, once news of his move as a head coach became official, he had a heartwarming moment on the kickoff show ahead of Week 16.
Michael Vick – Dynamic QB to College Head Coach
For those unfamiliar, Vick is the mold that Lamar Jackson now excels in. The first truly spectacular dual-threat quarterback, Vick was a phenomenal talent at the NFL level and carried the same pedigree to Fox’s kickoff show.
Yet, earlier in the week, a bigger opportunity came to Vick’s doorstep — a chance for a homecoming. A Newport News, Virginia native, Vick is now returning as the head coach of the Norfolk State Spartans. He made the news official in a post, pointing out the connection to his hometown.
“It’s an honor to announce that I’ll be the new head coach of Norfolk State University…looking forward to coming back home.”
Now with the time and a live TV in front of him, Vick spoke of the incredible opportunity he has to be a coach, mentor, and leader. Even before he began speaking, emotions began pouring out of all-time rushing yards leader amongst quarterbacks.
“First off, just being a big part of Fox Sports and the opportunity. I love you guys, I love everybody in this building. This administration has been amazing to me. This wasn’t easy.”
“Bittersweet” is the word Vick chose to describe his decision, given the impact the role at Fox has had on him in turning his life around. Yet, the decision ultimately came down to one thing.
New Norfolk State head coach @MichaelVick talks about his incredible new journey.
"I got what it takes, I got the right people around me." ❤️ (via @NFLonFOX)pic.twitter.com/ESUIhus1UX
— NFL (@NFL) December 22, 2024
“But when you got a chance to go lead young men in your community. I grew up watching this team, and I wanted them to be sure that they wanted me as the head coach with no coaching experience. But, I got what it takes, I got the right people around me. And I’m ready to embark on a new journey…This will forever be home and, um, I’ll never forget you guys.”
Vick’s comments about the opportunity to lead youngsters and teach them about football echo his statements from earlier in the week to Adam Schefter.
“I think my heart is really into teaching, you know, the game of football. I feel like I’ve learned so much from so many great coaches over the years. You know, I don’t want to bottle up a lot of knowledge, and I really can’t relay the messages that I want to relay to a high school kid because… you don’t have to dumb it down, but you can’t be as complex. And I get that.”
With Vick overcoming his demons and finding his way back home, Norfolk State will be a team to keep an eye out for next season.