History of Michael Vick in Timeline
Michael Vick is a former NFL quarterback and current college football coach, notable for his exceptional rushing ability. He played college football at Virginia Tech, where he won the Archie Griffin Award. Drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and led the team to multiple playoff appearances, including an NFC Championship Game. He was the NFL's all-time leader in quarterback rushing yards upon retirement. He currently serves as the head football coach for the Norfolk State Spartans.
June 26, 1980: Michael Vick's Birth
On June 26, 1980, Michael Dwayne Vick was born. He later became a professional football player and coach.
1980: Herschel Walker's Heisman finish
In 1980, Herschel Walker had the highest Heisman finish by a freshman, a record that was matched by Michael Vick in 1999.
1986: Win Against Syracuse at the Carrier Dome
During the 2000 season, Michael Vick led the Hokies to beat Syracuse at the Carrier Dome, where the Hokies had not won since 1986.
1996: Moved to Warwick High School
In 1996, Ferguson High School closed, and Michael Vick moved to Warwick High School as a sophomore with coach Tommy Reamon.
1998: College Football Scholarship
In 1998, Michael Vick left the Newport News public housing projects with a college football scholarship in hand and was seen in the Newport News community as a success story.
1999: First collegiate game for Virginia Tech
In 1999, Michael Vick played his first collegiate game for Virginia Tech against James Madison, scoring three rushing touchdowns. He also led the Hokies to an 11-0 undefeated season.
1999: Awards and Recognition
In 1999, Michael Vick won an ESPY Award and the Archie Griffin Award, and was named Big East Offensive Player of the Year. He also finished third in Heisman Trophy voting.
2000: 210 rushing yards against Boston College
During the 2000 season, Michael Vick had a career-high rushing total of 210 yards against Boston College.
2000: Selected in the MLB draft
In 2000, Michael Vick was selected in the 30th round of the Major League Baseball draft by the Colorado Rockies, despite not playing baseball since the eighth grade.
2000: Sixth in Heisman Trophy voting
In the 2000 season, Michael Vick finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting before leaving Virginia Tech to support his family.
April 9, 2001: Sporting News Interview
In an interview published April 9, 2001, Michael Vick told Sporting News magazine, "Sports kept me off the streets. It kept me from getting into what was going on, the bad stuff. Lots of guys I knew have had bad problems."
September 9, 2001: NFL Debut
On September 9, 2001, Michael Vick made his NFL debut against the San Francisco 49ers.
2001: Vick signs marketing agreement with Joel Enterprises
In 2001, Michael Vick signed a five-year marketing agreement with Joel Enterprises, nine days before announcing he was leaving Virginia Tech early and declaring himself eligible for the NFL Draft.
2001: Newport News Daily Press Interview
In a 2001 interview, Michael Vick told the Newport News Daily Press that when he was 10 or 11, "I would go fishing even if the fish weren't biting, just to get away from the violence and stress of daily life in the projects."
2002: Played 15 games
In 2002, Michael Vick made 15 starts, missing one game due to a sprained shoulder and set single-game career highs during the season.
January 4, 2003: Upset victory over the Green Bay Packers
On January 4, 2003, Michael Vick led the Falcons to an upset victory over the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card Round.
2003: Fractured Fibula
During the 2003 preseason, Michael Vick suffered a fractured right fibula and missed the first 11 games of the regular season.
2003: Michael Smith advises Vick
In 2003, Certified Financial Planner Michael Smith advised Vick.
October 31, 2004: First quarterback to pass for 250+ yards and rush for 100+ yards in the same game
On October 31, 2004, Michael Vick became the first quarterback to throw for more than 250 yards and rush for over 100 yards in the same game, during a game against the Denver Broncos.
2004: Vick signs new contract with Falcons
In 2004, Vick signed a new contract with the Atlanta Falcons. Later, an arbitrator ruled that Vick knew he was engaging in illegal activity when he signed his new contract in 2004, and that he had used the bonus money to pay for the dog fighting operation.
2004: Falcons sought to recover a portion of Vick's signing bonus
In 2004, the Atlanta Falcons sought to recover a portion of Michael Vick's $37 million signing bonus.
2005: Michael Smith resigns after Vick takes bad advice
In 2005, Certified Financial Planner Michael Smith resigned after Vick took bad advice from friends, made ill-conceived investments, overspent, and otherwise undermined the wealth-building plan that Smith had created.
2005: Joel Enterprises sues Vick for breach of contract
In 2005, Joel Enterprises sued Michael Vick in Richmond Circuit Court for $45 million in compensatory and punitive damages for breach of contract.
2005: Third Pro Bowl
Michael Vick made his third Pro Bowl after the 2005 season, but the Falcons missed the playoffs.
May 2006: Loan of $1.3 million secured to set up wine shop and restaurant
In May 2006, Michael Vick and Gerald Frank Jenkins secured a loan of $1.3 million to set up a wine shop and restaurant.
June 2006: Establishment of The Vick Foundation
In June 2006, Michael Vick, along with his brother Marcus and mother Brenda, established The Vick Foundation to support at-risk youth with after-school programs in the Metro Atlanta and Hampton Roads areas. The announcement preceded the Michael Vick Golf Classic fundraiser.
December 2006: Civil trial to proceed after Virginia Supreme Court ruling
In December 2006, after the Virginia Supreme Court denied a Vick motion and ruled that the civil trial could proceed, the parties agreed to submit the dispute to binding arbitration.
December 2006: Vick's last scores since December 2006
In week 13 against the Atlanta Falcons, Vick both threw and ran for a touchdown, his first scores since December 2006.
2006: Vick's annual income estimated at $25.4 million
At the end of 2006, Sports Illustrated magazine estimated Michael Vick's annual income between his NFL salary and endorsements at $25.4 million.
2006: First quarterback to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season
In 2006, Michael Vick became the first quarterback to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. Despite this record, the Falcons missed the playoffs.
2006: $45 million lawsuit pending in dispute with sports agents
In 2006, Michael Vick had a $45 million lawsuit pending in a dispute with his original sports agents, and several lucrative endorsement deals soured.
2006: Middle finger gesture to Atlanta football fans
In 2006, Michael Vick made a middle finger gesture to Atlanta football fans, negatively impacting his corporate status.
April 16, 2007: Donation after Virginia Tech massacre
On April 16, 2007, after the Virginia Tech massacre, Michael Vick and the United Way donated $10,000 to assist affected families. The Vick Foundation also collected donations to support funeral expenses and family transportation.
April 25, 2007: Search warrant leads to dog fighting evidence
On April 25, 2007, a search warrant executed as part of a drug investigation of Vick's cousin led to the discovery of evidence of unlawful dog fighting activities at a property owned by Vick in Surry County, Virginia.
July 2007: Financial claims against Vick escalate
After the dog fighting indictments were announced in July 2007, financial claims against Michael Vick escalated.
July 2007: Indictment on federal felony charges
In July 2007, Michael Vick and three other men were indicted on federal felony charges for operating an unlawful interstate dog fighting venture known as "Bad Newz Kennels".
August 2007: NFL suspends Vick indefinitely
In August 2007, after Vick pleaded guilty to federal charges in the Bad Newz Kennels dog fighting investigation, the NFL suspended him indefinitely without pay for violating its player conduct policy. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell cited Vick's admission to illegal and cruel conduct. Goodell left open the possibility of reinstatement depending on Vick's cooperation. Vick was barred from reporting to training camp, and bail terms prevented him from playing in 2007.
September 13, 2007: Vick tests positive for marijuana
On September 13, 2007, Michael Vick tested positive for marijuana in a random drug test, violating the conditions of his release while awaiting sentencing in federal court.
September 25, 2007: Virginia charges brought against defendants
On September 25, 2007, separate Virginia charges were brought against all four defendants in the dog-fighting case, following indictments by the Surry County grand jury.
September 26, 2007: 1st Source Bank claims damages in federal lawsuit
On September 26, 2007, 1st Source Bank claimed damages of at least $2 million in a federal lawsuit, alleging that Michael Vick and Divine Seven LLC refused to pay for at least 130 vehicles acquired to be used as rental cars.
November 2007: Vick attempts to sell another home
In November 2007, Michael Vick attempted to sell another of his homes due to financial strain.
2007: Involvement in dog fighting ring
In 2007, Michael Vick's NFL career was interrupted after he pleaded guilty for his involvement in a dog fighting ring, leading to a 21-month federal prison sentence. He faced public notoriety and was released by the Falcons.
2007: Richmond Times-Dispatch Article
In 2007, a newspaper article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch noted that "not much [had] changed" nearly a decade after Vick left the Ridley Circle Homes. The article highlighted ongoing issues like drug dealing and violence in the neighborhood.
2007: Speculation about Vick's future career
In 2007, amid his suspension and incarceration, there was much conjecture about Vick's return to professional football. ESPN's John Clayton suggested few general managers would take a chance on Vick due to potential backlash. He also said that the CFL banned players currently suspended by the NFL, and that it would be nearly impossible for a convicted felon to get a Canadian work visa. Clayton thought that Vick would be "unstoppable" if he decided to play in the Arena Football League in 2007.
2007: Animal cruelty case surfaced
In 2007, even before the animal cruelty case surfaced, Michael Vick's corporate status had deteriorated.
2007: Vick hires Wong, business manager, on recommendation of teammate
In the fall of 2007, Michael Vick hired Mary Wong, a business manager, on the recommendation of Falcons teammate Demorrio Williams, but she wrongfully removed at least another $900,000 from his various accounts.
April 2008: Vick meets Talbot
In April 2008, Michael Vick met Talbot through his brother, Marcus. Talbot, who claimed expertise in financial management, was hired at $15,000 per month and received an $85,000 Mercedes-Benz from Vick.
June 2008: Marcus Vick lists residence as Vick's home after arrest
In June 2008, Michael Vick's brother, Marcus, listed his residence as a $1.39 million home owned by Vick in Suffolk, Virginia, after being arrested and jailed in Norfolk.
July 7, 2008: Vick seeks Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
On July 7, 2008, Michael Vick sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Newport News.
August 2008: Trustee appointed to manage Vick's bankruptcy
In August 2008, trustee W. Clarkson McDow Jr. was appointed to manage Michael Vick's bankruptcy, noting Vick's limited ability to manage his finances.
October 14, 2008: Motion to enter plea via video denied
On October 14, 2008, Vick's attorney filed a motion to enter a plea via two-way electronic video with the Surry County Courts, but the request for a trial without Vick physically present was denied.
November 12, 2008: Vick's attorneys file first bankruptcy reorganization plan
On November 12, 2008, Vick's attorneys filed the initial bankruptcy reorganization plan, which included selling three of Vick's six homes. Vick's expenses included significant monthly support payments to his mother, fiancée, daughters, and former girlfriend.
November 2008: Vick appears in Surry County Court and pleads guilty
In November 2008, Michael Vick appeared before the Surry County Circuit Court and submitted a guilty plea to a single Virginia felony charge for dog fighting, receiving a 3-year prison sentence suspended on condition of good behavior, and a $2,500 fine.
March 25, 2009: Lawsuit filed alleging violation of employee benefits laws
On March 25, 2009, the United States Department of Labor filed a lawsuit alleging that Michael Vick and others violated federal employee benefits laws by withdrawing $1.35 million from a retirement plan sponsored by MV7, one of Vick's companies.
April 2, 2009: Vick appears at hearing, reorganization plan rejected
On April 2, 2009, Michael Vick appeared in person before Judge Santoro. Vick testified about intending to live a better life and expressed remorse for his crime. Santoro rejected the reorganization plan, deeming it unsound due to its reliance on Vick's uncertain return to the NFL.
April 3, 2009: Bankruptcy court advised of Vick-Falcons settlement agreement
On April 3, 2009, the bankruptcy court was advised of a Michael Vick-Atlanta Falcons settlement agreement regarding a reduced amount of the signing bonus.
July 20, 2009: Vick released from federal prison
Michael Vick was released from federal prison on July 20, 2009.
August 13, 2009: Vick signs with Philadelphia Eagles
On August 13, 2009, Vick signed a one-year, $1.6 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, with a team option for 2010. He was allowed to participate in practices and preseason games and was eligible to play in the third week of the regular season.
October 2009: Nike provides complimentary gear to Vick
Starting in October 2009, Nike began supplying Michael Vick with complimentary athletic gear.
2009: Signed with the Philadelphia Eagles
In 2009, Michael Vick signed with the Philadelphia Eagles after serving his prison sentence.
2009: Steelers Considered Signing Vick in 2009
The Steelers had considered signing Vick in 2009—both Vick and Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin are from the same part of Virginia and know each other well personally—but decided against it due to potential backlash since Vick at the time hadn't proven himself following his release from prison.
January 9, 2010: Vick throws touchdown in Wild Card game
On January 9, 2010, in the NFC Wild Card Round game against the Dallas Cowboys, Vick threw the longest touchdown pass of his career to rookie Jeremy Maclin for 76-yards. The Eagles lost the game 34–14.
2010: Vick's net wealth is an estimated $18.97 million in debt
By 2010, Michael Vick's net wealth was actually an estimated $18.97 million in debt.
2010: Comeback Player of the Year
In 2010, Michael Vick had his greatest statistical season with the Eagles, leading the team to a division title and earning him Comeback Player of the Year and a fourth Pro Bowl selection.
2010: Vick's payments
In 2010, Michael Vick paid his agent, Joel Segal, $32,500 and his bankruptcy lawyers $748,750.
2010: Eagles exercise option for Vick
In 2010, the Eagles exercised the option in Vick's contract and Vick received a $1.5 million roster bonus.
2010: Vick's performance against the Redskins
In a Week 10 Monday Night Football matchup against the Washington Redskins on November 14, 2010, Vick passed for 333 yards and four touchdowns, while rushing for 80 yards and another two touchdowns. He earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week. The Pro Football Hall of Fame asked for his game jersey to display after he became the first player to pass for three touchdowns and rush for two touchdowns in the first half of a game.
January 27, 2011: Vick signs endorsement deal with Unequal Technologies
On January 27, 2011, Michael Vick signed a two-year endorsement deal with Unequal Technologies, a company that produces football pads, marking his first endorsement after being released from prison.
March 4, 2011: Vick wins Bert Bell Award
On March 4, 2011, Vick won the Bert Bell Award. Vick finished second in the NFL Offensive Player of the Year and NFL MVP, both awarded to Tom Brady.
July 1, 2011: Nike re-signs Vick as an athlete
On July 1, 2011, Nike officially re-signed Michael Vick as an athlete. Nike had been providing Vick with complimentary gear since October 2009. This marked the first time the company brought back an athlete after dropping him.
2011: Vick lobbies for Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act
In 2011, Michael Vick lobbied for H.R. 2492, the Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act.
2011: Vick's payments
In 2011, Michael Vick paid his agent, Joel Segal, $104,000 and his bankruptcy lawyers $1 million.
2011: Vick's 2011 season with the Eagles
In the 2011 season, Vick appeared in and started 13 games for the Eagles. He finished with 3,303 passing yards, 18 passing touchdowns, and 14 interceptions, along with 76 carries for 589 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Philadelphia finished the 2011 season with an 8–8 record.
January 1, 2012: Eagles victory over Washington
The final game of the 2011 season was a 34–10 victory on January 1, 2012, at home against Washington. Vick completed 24 of 39 passes for 335 yards and three touchdowns.
2012: Vick launches V7 clothing line
In 2012, Michael Vick launched a sports clothing line called V7, sold exclusively at Modell's. Part of the proceeds was intended to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia.
2012: Vick's payments
In 2012, Michael Vick was scheduled to pay his agent Joel Segal $160,000.
2012: Vick starts 2012 season with the Eagles
Michael Vick began the 2012 season as the starting quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles won the first game against the Cleveland Browns despite Vick throwing four interceptions, but after a series of mixed results, calls for coach Andy Reid to replace Vick intensified.
February 11, 2013: Vick and Eagles agree to contract
On February 11, 2013, the Eagles and Vick agreed on a one-year restructured contract worth up to $10 million. After a stellar preseason, Vick reclaimed his starting job from Foles, who was named Vick's backup.
2013: Colin Kaepernick breaks single-game rushing record
In 2013, Colin Kaepernick broke the NFL record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game (181 yards), surpassing the record previously held by Michael Vick (173 yards).
March 21, 2014: Vick signs with New York Jets
On March 21, 2014, Vick signed a one-year $5 million contract with the New York Jets, the same day the Jets released Mark Sanchez.
August 25, 2015: Vick signs with Pittsburgh Steelers
On August 25, 2015, Vick signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers worth $970,000.
2015: Vick's payments
In 2015, Michael Vick was scheduled to pay his agent Joel Segal $160,000.
2016: Free Agent
In 2016, Michael Vick spent the NFL season as a free agent before officially retiring in 2017.
2016: Vick plans one more season in NFL
In 2016, Vick announced he would play one more season in the NFL.
February 3, 2017: Vick officially announces retirement
On February 3, 2017, after not signing with a team all season, Vick officially announced his retirement from professional football.
June 12, 2017: Vick retires as an Atlanta Falcon
On June 12, 2017, Vick retired as an Atlanta Falcon.
June 28, 2017: Vick joins American Flag Football League
On June 28, 2017, Vick began participating in the newly formed American Flag Football League, serving as captain of Team Vick.
2017: Vick joins Chiefs as coaching intern and becomes NFL analyst
During their 2017 training camp, Vick joined his former coach Andy Reid as a coaching intern with the Kansas City Chiefs. After the Chiefs concluded their 2017 training camp, he became an NFL analyst on Fox NFL Kickoff on FS1.
2017: Official Retirement
In 2017, Michael Vick officially retired from the NFL after spending the 2016 season as a free agent.
2017: Inducted into Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame
In 2017, Michael Vick was inducted into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame for his football accomplishments in two seasons.
December 20, 2024: Vick named head football coach at Norfolk State University
On December 20, 2024, Vick was named the 19th head football coach at Norfolk State University.
2024: Head Football Coach at Norfolk State
Near the end of the 2024 season, Michael Vick was named the head football coach at Norfolk State.
2025: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame
Michael Vick was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2025.
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