Two HBCU legends, Michael Strahan and Michael Vick, have made significant contributions to the growth of HBCU programs throughout their respective careers. One went from being a standout defensive end at Texas Southern to a Super Bowl triumph. And the other simply transformed the QB position from his early days at Virginia Tech to setting NFL records for rushing yards by a QB. This led to both of them earning a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Now, with Strahan having made a name for himself as a sports media personality and entrepreneur. Meanwhile, Vick, who is gearing up to lead Norfolk State as a first-time head coach, has just announced a groundbreaking collaboration.

BET Media Group has officially given the green light to a docuseries centered around Michael Vick’s transformational journey to Norfolk State. After serving as an analyst for Fox NFL Kickoff and its game-day coverage since retiring from the gridiron, Vick was announced as Norfolk State’s 19th head coach. To shouts of “Coach” and “Let’s Go Spartans,” Vick returned to his Virginia community where he grew up. “It wasn’t the easiest decision to make. I’ve got family that I considered. I care about and I love. This requires a lot of change in lifestyle. But at the same time, it allows me to serve young men in my community,” Vick said in his opening press conference.

Taking up the reins at the largest Historically Black College and University in Virginia, Vick’s homecoming was more than just an opportunity. That’s why BET and Strahan’s SMAC Entertainment will co-produce this Vick documentary aimed at spotlighting his journey from being a generational QB to a leader in his community.

“I know first-hand the power that HBCUs have on a community and the opportunity they give to so many student-athletes. Michael Vick’s commitment to impacting these young men’s lives and passing along the gifts that football provided him is so inspiring. I’m excited for fans to join him on his journey with Norfolk State University,” Co-founder of SMAC, Michael Strahan, said. This docuseries will trace Vick’s electrifying performances at Warwick High School to the NFL. It will offer an unfiltered look at Vick transitioning into coaching for the very first time in his football career.

Vick’s story will touch his undeniable commitment to faith, second chances, and changing lives on and off the field. Vick’s foray into coaching a historically weak HBCU program marked the end of his 8-year stay with Fox Sports Network.

Michael Vick left Fox comfort for HBCU grind

Back in July 2021, Vick apparently signed a $395,000 contract with Fox Sports to serve as their color commentator among other roles. From an analyst to an on-air personality giving unbiased takes throughout the football season, Vick had a constant presence on the network. His TV popularity even led him to sign a similar deal with Fox’s FS1. However, last year in December, Vick announced his departure from FOX.

“This wasn’t easy. Bittersweet. But when you get an opportunity to go lead young men in your community, where I grew up watching this team. I wanted them to be assured that they wanted me to be the head coach with no experience. But I got what it takes. I got all the right people around me. And I’m ready to embark on a new journey,” Vick mused. He also went on to say that Fox will always have a special place in his heart, wherever he goes. “So I know y’all will be there right with me, but this will forever be home. And I’ll never forget that.”

This might be Vick’s first head coaching gig. But it ain’t his first coaching job. Back in 2017, Vick served as the Falcons‘ offensive coordinator for their Legends team in the Alliance of American Football League. Then, most famously, Vick was also a coaching intern under Andy Reid’s Chiefs. He apparently mentored and coached rookie Patrick Mahomes before he went on to become the face of the NFL, winning 3 Super Bowls. As he looks to change Norfolk State’s fortunes, Strahan’s SMAC and BET will work closely to share Vick’s inspiring journey with us soon.