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Michael Vick has now been linked to two Division I head coaching jobs in college football. The first offer represents a return home and an opportunity to give back to a community that supported him in his youth. The second offer might be a bit more lucrative.
Sacramento State has reportedly reached out to discuss its opening with the former NFL passer. It’s just the latest headline for the university as it pursues athletic excellence.
The Hornets are currently an FCS member of the Big Sky Conference. From 2019-2023, the program went 38-13 with four straight playoff appearances. This year, though, there was a significant drop in production.
Sacramento State was just 3-9. Compounding the issues, head coach Andy Thompson resigned from his post shortly after season’s end to take a job at Stanford. The timing of that resignation was interesting.
Just days prior, the school announced that it had raised $35 million in 24 hours to use for NIL purposes. It had a final goal of $50 million to be spread across multiple seasons. It’s objective? To show a commitment to football that would justify a move to the FBS, and more specifically, into the PAC 12.
Josh Wood, the co-chair of the university’s Sac12 executive committee, said the NIL commitments were secured through “local business and community leaders, and a local tribe.” The school was hoping to become more attractive to the PAC 12, who is currently trying to re-strengthen following the losses of everyone but Oregon State and Washington State.
Will Michael Vick replace Andy Thompson?
Adam Schefter says it’s a possibility. The NFL insider posted a message to X on Monday noting Vick’s candidacy.
Sacramento State is in discussions to hire former Pro-Bowl QB Mike Vick as its new head coach, per sources. Sacramento State plans to move up to FBS, is building a new stadium and has over $50 million in NIL. Sacramento State would build an experienced coaching staff around Vick…
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 16, 2024
Earlier in the day, it was revealed that Vick had interviewed for the opening at Norfolk State. That program is just down the road from his hometown of Newport News. Now, a second suitor has joined the table.
Both programs are currently playing at an FCS level. One has clear intentions to move up to the FBS. Michael Vick’s status as a former NFL and college football star would only make Sacramento State more attractive given the recent commitment to NIL.
He may have a decision to make in the coming days regarding his future. Will he return home or jump at the best opportunity if given the chance? Time will tell.