By Mark Pszonak
Rumors have been swirling during the last two days that Michael Vick was close to becoming a head coach at the college level. Norfolk State and Sacramento State were both mentioned, and late this afternoon it was announced that one of the two would be his first head coaching job.
As reported by footballscoop.com, Vick has accepted the head coaching position at Norfolk State. He is a legend in the Norfolk, Virginia area, having played his high school football in nearby Newport News. He then gained fame and respect while playing at Virginia Tech and then in the NFL with Atlanta and Philadelphia
However, it is impossible to bring up Vick without mentioning the negative. Just as he became famous for his football abilities, for some people he is equally known for his dog fighting conviction and 23 months in federal prison. Anyone who pretends the negative didn’t happen is just kidding themselves.
The negative comments will continue to follow Vick for the rest of his life, but if there is any place where he can start fresh it might be Norfolk. As mentioned, he is a legend in the area, and that will go a long way in helping him establish himself in the college community.
Will that also lead to recruiting success and wins on the field? That is something everyone will need to wait to find out, but it will definitely bring excitement and national attention.
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Comparisons will be made with Deion Sanders and his time at Jackson State, which is understandable. This feels different though. Sanders has a personality that is polarizing, which isn’t something that can be said about Vick. He will gain plenty of attention, but the question will be if he can translate that into success.
Whatever happens in the next few seasons, Norfolk State has put themselves in the spotlight with this hire. People will be interested and people will be curious, but will people be watching a successful product?
