Norfolk State University Athletics

Michael Vick, one of the most electrifying players in football history and a four-time Hall of Famer, was named the 19th head football coach at Norfolk State Spartans football on Dec. 20, 2024. 

A native of Newport News, Va., Vick returned to the Hampton Roads region in 2025 to lead the revival of the Spartan football program, bringing with him a wealth of experience as both a professional athlete and mentor. In his inaugural season at the helm, Vick guided Norfolk State through a competitive 2025 transition season, where the Spartans either won or were within one touchdown of winning in seven of its games, highlighted by a thrilling 34-31 overtime victory over Virginia State in the annual Labor Day Classic. Under Coach Vick’s guidance, the Spartans fought courageously during their 2025 campaign and helped build a strong foundation for the future under his leadership. 

Vick also made an immediate impact in player development, coaching three All-MEAC honorees in his first season: Jaylen White (return specialist), David Ojiegbe (defensive end), and Terique Miles (linebacker). 

A four-time Hall of Fame inductee, Vick has been recognized for his lasting impact on the game at every level. His honors include induction into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame (2017), the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame (2023), the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame (2025), and most recently, the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame (2026). 

Before entering the collegiate coaching ranks, Vick enjoyed a storied 13-year NFL career, earning four Pro Bowl selections and becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. He later starred for the Philadelphia Eagles and had stints with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers, amassing more than 22,000 passing yards and 133 touchdowns while revolutionizing the quarterback position with his dual-threat ability. 

Vick first rose to national prominence at Virginia Tech Hokies football, where he led the Hokies to a 22-2 record as a starter, a Big East Championship, and a berth in the national championship game. He finished third in Heisman Trophy voting in 1999, the highest finish in program history, and later had his No. 7 jersey retired.  

Prior to taking over at Norfolk State, Vick gained valuable coaching and mentorship experience across multiple levels. He served as an offensive coordinator in the Alliance of American Football, worked as a coaching intern with the Kansas City Chiefs under Andy Reid—helping mentor quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and founded the V7 Football Experience, a development program that has trained and mentored young athletes nationwide for over a decade. 

Known for his dynamic leadership and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field, Vick continues to build the Norfolk State program while inspiring the next generation through his journey, experience, and impact.