Sixteen years after Michael Vick and Donovan McNabb teamed up for the Philadelphia Eagles, Vick has taken a step that might bring the two icons back together for years to come. On Tuesday, Vick, now the head coach of Norfolk State University, presented a scholarship to Donovan McNabb Jr., the son of his former teammate. This move excites football fans because it brings together two legendary names in the game.
A Surprise Call from a Legend
Michael Vick called Brophy Prep in Phoenix to speak with gifted sophomore wide receiver Donovan McNabb Jr., who was shocked. “My dad told me Michael Vick was about to call me,” McNabb Jr. told ESPN. “At first, I didn’t really believe it; but, I was somewhat in shock when he did. I mean, he’s Michael Vick, but it was really important to me since he also participated with my dad.”
Vick and McNabb Sr. played together for one season in 2009 before McNabb was traded to Washington in 2010. Their relationship has stayed strong despite their fleeting time as colleagues, and this scholarship offer marks a new chapter in their shared history.
Vick’s Road from Player to Coach
After 13 seasons in the NFL, Michael Vick retired in 2017; in December 2024, Norfolk State University hired him as head coach. Over four seasons, Vick threw for 9,898 yards and 56 touchdowns for the Eagles, solidifying his position as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history. These days, he focuses on building a strong program at Norfolk State, an HBCU (Historically Black College or University).
Conversely, Donovan McNabb Sr. retired from the NFL in 2013 following 11 seasons there. Still the all-time leader in passing yards (32,873) and touchdowns (216) for the Eagles. Young athletes, including his son, are still motivated by his legacy.
McNabb Jr.’s Rising Star
People already recognize Donovan McNabb Jr. for his potential as a wide receiver. Standing six feet tall and weighing 160 pounds, he had an outstanding sophomore season at Brophy Prep, accumulating 83 receiving yards on nine receptions and one touchdown. Nine scholarships, from Arizona, Minnesota, Iowa State, Southern Miss, and Syracuse, have come from his performance.
Still, Norfolk State’s offer is quite meaningful. “That would be a major step,” McNabb Jr. remarked. “Just the fact he participated with my dad; I know he would look after me there. I most definitely will give this some thought.”
The Allure of Representing an NFL Legend
When asked whether he would be excited to play for an NFL legend like Michael Vick at an HBCU, McNabb Jr. answered without delay. “Very,” he responded. “I most definitely want to visit the campus and meet with [Vick] down there. I’m just following my dad’s advice about being open at this stage of the process; I believe it’s a great opportunity.”
McNabb Jr. enthusiastically shared his excitement on Twitter: ‘#AGTG Following a wonderful conversation with @MichaelVick, I feel privileged that Norfolk State University has extended an offer!’
An Ongoing Legacy
This potential reunion between Michael Vick and the McNabb family goes beyond just football—it highlights the lifelong bonds forged in the NFL.. For Donovan McNabb Jr., the chance to play under Vick’s direction represents a means to carry on his father’s legacy while forging his own path.
One thing is certain as McNabb Jr. considers his choices: the bond between these two football families is still as strong as it was years ago. His path is one to observe regardless of the university he chooses—Norfolk State or another.
For more updates on college football and NFL legacies, visit ESPN or check out Luvrix’s sports insights.
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