Vick named head coach at FCS school Norfolk St.

NORFOLK, Va. —

Norfolk State is convinced Vick can make similar strides with its program.

Webb, the school’s AD, said Vick was among the greatest athletes to come out of the region and that his hire will attract talented players to the school.

“I am confident that our football program will establish sustainable recruiting pipelines in the state of Virginia and across the country with this hire,” she said.

The school’s release didn’t mention Vick’s high-profile troubles with a dogfighting ring in the prime of his career with the Falcons.

Vick served 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to his role. After his release in 2009, he returned to the NFL and won AP Comeback Player of the Year with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2010, but his best years were behind him.

He retired in 2017 and has advocated against animal cruelty while also working as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports.

Vick will be formally introduced on campus Monday.

“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,” Vick said. “I am honored to join the Norfolk State family.”

Norfolk State fired coach Dawson Odums in November after a 4-8 season. The Spartans have made one appearance in the FCS playoffs, losing in the first round to in-state rival Old Dominion in 2011.

Before accepting the Norfolk State job, Vick also spoke to Sacramento State about its open head coaching position.