Norfolk State Hired Michael Vick as Head Coach

The university board unanimously approved the appointment of the former NFL quarterback on December 20, 2024.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Football

Norfolk State Hired Michael Vick as Head Coach

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Norfolk State officially brought on Michael Vick to lead its football program following a unanimous board vote on December 20, 2024. The university made a $1.6 million commitment to secure the 44-year-old former NFL veteran for the position.

Why it matters

Vick viewed the opportunity to coach in a community he knew as a dream come true, aiming to mentor young men through the program. The hiring process involved coordination with state officials and athletic leadership to bring the former pro to the campus.

The football team recorded a 1-11 finish during the 2025 season, including a 34-31 victory over Virginia State in September. The program currently maintains a 4-3 record in Vick's second season.

The players

Michael Vick

He is a former professional football player who spent 13 seasons in the NFL and later served as an analyst for FOX Sports.

Norfolk State

This public university located in Virginia serves as the home institution for the football program.

Aaron Rouse

He is a Virginia state senator who helped facilitate the connection between the university and the coaching candidate.

Melody Webb

She serves as the athletic director at the university and identified the candidate as the top choice for the position.

The details

Vick transitioned to coaching after previously playing 13 seasons in the NFL and working for FOX Sports. His path to the role included a connection with Virginia state senator Aaron Rouse and discussions with athletic director Melody Webb.

Vick participated in a training camp with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017.
The Norfolk State board approved the appointment on December 20, 2024.
The team defeated Virginia State 34-31 in September 2025.
Michael Vick spoke with Lawrencia Moten on October 11, 2026.

Season Trajectory

The program's performance shifted from a single-win season in 2025 to a 4-3 record in the current campaign. This trend suggests a building phase for the team as they look to improve their standing within the conference.

The team's 1-11 record in 2025 highlights the substantial challenge the new coaching staff faced in its inaugural year. A current 4-3 record indicates a measurable improvement in competitiveness compared to the previous season.

The takeaway

The move demonstrates a strategic investment in high-profile leadership to revitalize the university's athletic program. Success moving forward will depend on whether the recent improvement to a winning record can be sustained through the remainder of the season.