Former Steelers QB Michael Vick Lands Head Coaching Job
On Friday, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Michael Vick was announced as the head coach of the Norfolk State Spartans per the University’s official X page.
The job is the first professional coaching gig at any level for Vick, who hasn’t played in the NFL since his 2015 season with the Steelers.
Vick had been rumored to be a candidate for multiple college football head coaching jobs prior to this announcement. The Virginia native will get his first official coaching opportunity in his home state.
“I am blessed and humbled by this opportunity to lead, mentor, and transform the football program at Norfolk State University,” Vick said in a statement posted to social media. “A prestigious HBCU with a rich athletics history, NSU provides a tremendous environment for students to reach their full potential on the field and just as importantly, in the classroom. I am honored to join the Norfolk State family and welcome your support as we embark on this journey together.
The former first-overall pick in the 2001 draft last played for the Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring in 2017. In his lone season, he stepped in for an injured Ben Roethlisberger in five games – starting three. In his five games, he tossed only two touchdowns while posting a 2-1 starting record.
Vick was benched after injuring his hamstring against the Arizona Cardinals. Despite the benching, Vick’s highlight game came on Monday Night Football in San Diego. Despite a lackluster performance, Vick showed flashes of the vintage “Like Mike” Vick that saw him get drafted to Atlanta.
During that game, Vick led a late fourth-quarter comeback that was capped by a Le’Veon Bell touchdown with no time left. The following week, Landry Jones stepped in to finish the Cardinals game in the second half. Vick never received another snap.
Prior to his Pittsburgh tenure, Vick spent his first six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. His career took a turn when he was convicted in a dog-fighting ring and served two years in prison. He eventually found an opportunity with the Philadelphia Eagles and eventually take the starting job in 2010. After Philly, he spent a year with the New York Jets.
In four career starts against the Steelers, Vick posted a 2-1-1 record including two memorable showdowns in 2002 and 2006.
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