Sacramento State Engages Mike Vick in Coaching Role Discussion

Sacramento State has officially met with former NFL star Mike Vick regarding the school’s vacant head football coaching position, according to university president Luke Wood, who shared the update with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday.

Wood expressed enthusiasm about Vick’s interest in the position, stating:
“He has shown interest in the role, and yes, I met with him to discuss his passion for Sacramento State football and our athletic development. With the success of our sports programs, our head football coaching position is an incredibly appealing opportunity.”

Sacramento State’s Ambitious Plans

According to sources close to the program, Sacramento State has ambitious goals, including transitioning to the FBS level. The university is already constructing a new state-of-the-art football stadium and has secured over $50 million in NIL funding, which demonstrates its commitment to competing at the highest levels of college football.

Vick’s Parallel Interview with Norfolk State

While discussions with Sacramento State are underway, Mike Vick is also interviewing with Norfolk State for their head coaching vacancy. Norfolk State, located in Vick’s home state of Virginia, is just a short distance from his hometown of Newport News. Vick’s local ties make him a natural candidate for that position as well, creating an intriguing competition for his services.

The Hornets’ Coaching Transition

The head coaching role at Sacramento State became available following Andy Thompson’s departure. Thompson, who led the Hornets for the past two seasons, left to take an assistant head coaching position at Stanford. Sacramento State endured a challenging 2023 season, finishing with a disappointing 3-9 record and landing in 11th place in the Big Sky Conference. The Hornets are now looking for a fresh face to revitalize the program, and Mike Vick could be the dynamic figure they need.

Mike Vick’s Playing Legacy

Vick’s football journey is well-documented. As a college player, Mike Vick led Virginia Tech to the 1999 national championship game, where they ultimately fell to Florida State 46-29. He later made history as the first African American quarterback to be selected No. 1 overall in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.

During his prime, Vick revolutionized the quarterback position with his unparalleled athleticism and dual-threat abilities. However, his career faced a major setback when he was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for funding an illegal dogfighting operation, a scandal that severely impacted his reputation.

Following his release in 2009, Vick returned to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and enjoyed a brief resurgence. Though his peak years were behind him, Vick remained a prominent figure in football before retiring from the league in 2017.

Vick’s Post-NFL Career and Redemption

Since retiring, Mike Vick has transitioned into media, serving as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports. He has also made it part of his mission to advocate against animal cruelty, seeking redemption through public awareness and philanthropy. Vick’s journey from a troubled star to a mentor and advocate has resonated with many, and his return to football in a coaching capacity could mark an exciting new chapter.

Sacramento State’s Bold Move

With Vick’s pedigree as a trailblazer in football and his extensive experience at the highest levels of the game, Sacramento State’s interest in him reflects their ambition to elevate their football program. The addition of a high-profile figure like Vick could attract top recruits, enhance the program’s visibility, and position the Hornets for success as they transition into the FBS landscape.

While Vick’s candidacy is not yet finalized, the conversation signals Sacramento State’s determination to build a competitive and high-caliber football program. Whether or not Vick ultimately takes the position, his involvement underlines the growing appeal of the Sacramento State football program.

As the process unfolds, all eyes will be on Mike Vick and Sacramento State to see if this partnership becomes a reality, marking an exciting development for college football fans and the future of the Hornets.