Michael D. Vick (born June 26 1980) is an American former professional football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 13 seasons. He is known for his athleticism, passing ability, and contributions to the development of the dual‑threat quarterback role.
Early life and education
- Born in Newport News, Virginia, to a single mother, Vick grew up in the Church Hill neighborhood.
- Attended Warwick High School, where he earned All‑state honors as a quarterback and also excelled in track and field.
- Regarded as a top high‑school recruit, he chose to attend Virginia Tech, playing for the Virginia Tech Hokies from 1998 to 2000.
College career
- Became the starting quarterback as a sophomore and led the Hokies to the 1999 BCS National Championship Game, where they were narrowly defeated by Florida State.
- Set multiple school records, including career passing yards (8,720) and total offense (11,495 yards).
- Earned first‑team All‑ACC honors in 1999 and 2000 and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 1999.
NFL career
- Selected first overall in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, becoming the first African‑American quarterback chosen with the top pick.
- Played for the Falcons (2001–2005), establishing franchise records for passing yards (10,521) and touchdowns (55).
- In 2005, Vick was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he served as a backup before being released in 2006.
Legal issues and suspension
- In 2007, Vick was indicted on federal and state charges related to an illegal interstate dog‑fighting ring operating in Surry County, Virginia.
- He pleaded guilty to a felony charge of unlawful dog fighting, received a 23‑month federal prison sentence, and served 18 months.
- The NFL suspended Vick indefinitely; the league later imposed an eight‑game suspension for the 2009 season, after which he was reinstated.
Return to the NFL
- Signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2009 and became the starting quarterback for the 2010 season, leading the team to a 10‑6 record and a playoff appearance.
- Played for the Eagles until 2013, then signed with the New York Jets (2014–2015) and later the Pittsburgh Steelers (2016).
- Retired after the 2015 season, finishing his career with 22,424 passing yards, 138 touchdowns, and a 57.3 passer rating. He also rushed for 6,109 yards and 36 rushing touchdowns, ranking among the top rushing quarterbacks in NFL history.
Post‑playing career
- Worked as an analyst for NFL Network and contributed to various media outlets.
- Served as an ambassador for animal‑rights organizations, including the Humane Society of the United States, focusing on anti‑dog‑fighting advocacy.
- In 2018, Vick joined the ownership group of the Atlanta Falcons as part of a minority investment.
Legacy
- Recognized for redefining quarterback mobility and influencing subsequent dual‑threat players.
- Inducted into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame (2016).
- His career remains a subject of discussion regarding both his on‑field contributions and the impact of his criminal conviction on public perception.
