Michael Vick couldn't help but get emotional when discussing his new head coaching job at Norfolk State.
The former NFL quarterback was officially announced as the program's new head coach last week and is expected to be introduced at a press conference Monday.
But he spoke on Fox's NFL pregame show Sunday about his new job, where he has been an analyst since 2017.
Vick was unable to finish his story as host Charissa Thompson and fellow analysts Charles Woodson and Julian Edelman all wore Norfolk State hats to celebrate the news.
“First of all, it's a huge part of Fox Sports and I've been blessed with the opportunity to do it,” Vick said on air after wiping away tears seconds earlier. “I love you all, I love everyone in this building, and this administration has been great to me. It hasn't been easy, it's been bittersweet, but given the opportunity, To have the opportunity to lead young men in my own community, where I grew up, and you can tell by looking at this team, I wanted them to feel safe. [coaching] experience. But I have what I need, I have the right people, and I am ready to embark on a new journey. ”
The moment was equally meaningful to Vick and the studio staff around him, with Thompson describing Fox Sports' loss as “their gain” and calling Vick a “teammate for life.”
Woodson praised Vick's passion and encouraged the athletes watching to attend Norfolk State because “you're going to get the best knowledge from this guy.”
“This is my forever home and I will never forget it,” Vick said.
Vick was a quarterback who made four Pro Bowl appearances during a 13-year NFL career with the Falcons, Eagles, Jets and Steelers.
NSU Athletic Director Melody Webb expressed her excitement about Vick's hiring in a press release announcing the news.
“Coach Vic is one of the most electric athletes to come out of the state of Virginia,” Webb said. “From humble beginnings to great stardom, we hope his story will be shared by the student-athletes here at Norfolk State University. With this hire, our football program will be recognized in Virginia and across the nation. We are confident that we will be able to establish a sustainable recruitment pipeline.”
