Vick & Jackson Become HBCU Head Coaches

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**NFL Legends Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson Step into Head Coaching Roles at HBCUs, Highlighting Growing Trend**

**NORFOLK, VA & DOVER, DE – May 28, 2024** – This past Monday, May 27th, marked a significant day for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) football as two prominent NFL figures, Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson, officially took the reins of programs, bringing their star power and NFL-level experience to the collegiate ranks. Vick has been named the new head coach for the Norfolk State Spartans, while Jackson has stepped into the interim head coach position at Delaware State.

The dual appointments, particularly noteworthy for the shared Philadelphia Eagles connection between Vick and Jackson, underscore a growing trend of former professional athletes choosing to lead HBCU athletic programs, aiming to elevate their profiles and inspire the next generation of talent.

DeSean Jackson, a dynamic wide receiver known for his multiple stints with the Philadelphia Eagles during a storied 15-year NFL career, has been promoted from his assistant coach role with the Delaware State Hornets. Jackson, who joined the Hornets’ staff in February, assumes the interim head coach position following the departure of Lee Hull, who left to become an assistant coach with the New England Patriots in the NFL, specifically as their wide receivers coach.

“I’m ready for the challenge. I’m excited to get in and make a real impact on these young men’s lives, both on and off the field,” Jackson stated with enthusiasm. “Delaware State gave me my first coaching opportunity, and I’m committed to building on the foundation Coach Hull left behind.”

Approximately 170 miles south in Norfolk, Virginia, Michael Vick, the groundbreaking quarterback who revolutionized the position with the Atlanta Falcons and later revived his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, takes over as head coach for the Norfolk State Spartans. Vick’s appointment follows Dawson Odums’ departure to become an assistant head coach and run game coordinator at Virginia Tech.

“This is a dream come true,” Vick expressed, reflecting on his new role. “To lead a program like Norfolk State, an HBCU with such a rich history, is an incredible honor. I’m eager to instill discipline, a winning culture, and help these student-athletes reach their full potential.” Vick’s innovative playing style and electrifying playmaking ability made him one of the most exciting players of his era, and his transition to head coach is expected to draw significant attention.

Both Norfolk State and Delaware State are members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), setting the stage for potential future matchups between the two former Eagles’ squads.

The decision by Vick and Jackson to coach at HBCUs resonates with a broader movement seen in recent years. This trend was famously highlighted by Deion Sanders, whose transformative tenure at Jackson State saw unprecedented visibility and success before he moved to the University of Colorado. Other prominent ex-NFL players and coaches who have embraced HBCU coaching roles include Hue Jackson at Grambling State University, Eddie George at Tennessee State University, and Fred McNair, who recently took over at Texas Southern University after a successful run at Alcorn State.

These high-profile appointments bring not only significant star power but also invaluable NFL-level experience, strategic insights, and an extensive network directly into HBCU football programs. Experts believe these hires can dramatically impact recruitment, fundraising, and the overall profile of HBCU athletics.

“Having individuals like Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson leading programs in the MEAC is a game-changer,” said Dr. Eleanor Vance, a sports management professor specializing in collegiate athletics. “Their names alone attract attention from top recruits, media, and potential donors. More importantly, they offer these young players a firsthand look at what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of football, providing mentorship that extends far beyond X’s and O’s.”

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the increasing presence of NFL legends on HBCU sidelines signifies a promising new chapter, promising enhanced competition, renewed interest, and a powerful platform for student-athletes.