History of Michael Vick in Timeline
Michael Vick is a former NFL quarterback known for his exceptional rushing ability. He holds the record for most career rushing yards by a quarterback and was the first to surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a single season. Drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001, he played six seasons with the team, earning three Pro Bowl selections and leading them to two playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl appearance. After his time with the Falcons, Vick played for the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
June 26, 1980: Michael Vick is born
On June 26, 1980, Michael Dwayne Vick was born in Newport News, Virginia. He would go on to become a prominent figure in the NFL.
1980: Matching Herschel Walker's Heisman Finish
Michael Vick's impressive third-place finish in the 1999 Heisman Trophy voting equaled the highest position ever attained by a freshman, a feat previously achieved by Herschel Walker in 1980, highlighting Vick's exceptional talent.
1986: Ending the Drought at the Carrier Dome
In 2000, Michael Vick played a key role in ending Virginia Tech's losing streak at the Carrier Dome against Syracuse, a victory that held special significance for the Hokies.
1996: High School Transition
Michael Vick and his coach, Tommy Reamon, both transitioned to Warwick High School in 1996 following the closure of Ferguson High School, where Vick's athletic talent had begun to garner attention.
1998: Choosing Virginia Tech
Influenced by his coach, Tommy Reamon, and the promise of guidance and development, Michael Vick made a pivotal decision in 1998 to attend Virginia Tech, a choice that would shape his football journey.
1999: Breakout Freshman Season
Michael Vick's exceptional talent was on full display during his redshirt freshman year at Virginia Tech in 1999. He led the Hokies to an undefeated season, showcased his electrifying playing style, and gained national recognition, including a memorable cover appearance on ESPN The Magazine.
1999: NCAA Passing Efficiency Record and Awards
Michael Vick's remarkable freshman season in 1999 was marked by setting the NCAA record for passing efficiency, a testament to his exceptional skills as a quarterback. He also earned prestigious awards, including the ESPY Award for the nation's top college player and the Archie Griffin Award.
2000: Drafted by the Colorado Rockies
Despite not playing baseball since middle school, Michael Vick's athletic prowess was recognized by the Colorado Rockies, who selected him in the 30th round of the 2000 Major League Baseball Draft. This unexpected selection highlighted his exceptional talent across multiple sports.
2000: Leaving for the NFL and Providing for Family
Driven by a strong desire to support his family, Michael Vick made the decision to leave Virginia Tech after his redshirt sophomore season in 2000 to pursue a career in the NFL. He aimed to use his earnings to improve his family's living situation.
2000: Career-High Rushing and Key Victories
Michael Vick's 2000 season included memorable performances, such as his career-high rushing total against Boston College. He played a crucial role in leading Virginia Tech to victories against rivals like West Virginia and Syracuse, showcasing his impact on the field.
April 9, 2001: Vick Credits Sports for Keeping Him Out of Trouble
In an interview published on April 9, 2001, with Sporting News magazine, Michael Vick candidly acknowledged the positive impact sports had on his life, emphasizing how they provided an alternative path and kept him away from negative influences during his youth.
September 9, 2001: NFL Debut
Michael Vick made his NFL debut against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9, 2001, although he saw limited action.
2001: Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons
Michael Vick's exceptional speed and athleticism were evident in his impressive 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine. This performance solidified his status as a top prospect, leading to his selection as the first overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2001 NFL Draft.
2001: Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons
In a landmark moment for the NFL, Michael Vick was selected first overall in the 2001 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons, making history as the first African-American quarterback chosen for the top pick.
2001: Vick Reflects on Difficult Childhood
In a revealing interview with the Newport News Daily Press in 2001, Michael Vick opened up about the challenges he faced growing up in a crime-ridden neighborhood, sharing how he used activities like fishing as an escape.
2001: Start of Alleged Incidents
Beginning in 2001, Michael Vick was allegedly involved in a series of incidents that would later come to light.
2001: Vick Signs With Joel Enterprises
In 2001, just before declaring for the NFL Draft, Michael Vick signed a five-year marketing agreement with sports agency Joel Enterprises. He attempted to end the agreement shortly after, leading to a legal dispute.
January 6, 2002: Season Finale Performance
In the 2001 season finale against the St. Louis Rams on January 6, 2002, Vick showcased his potential by accounting for 234 of Atlanta's 255 yards.
January 4, 2003: Playoff Upset Victory
On January 4, 2003, Vick led the Falcons to a surprising win against the favored Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card Round.
2003: Return from Injury
After suffering a fractured fibula, Vick returned to the field in Week 13 of the 2003 season, displaying his resilience and determination.
2003: Start of Financial Advising
From 2003, Vick started receiving financial advice from certified planner Michael Smith.
October 31, 2004: Record-Breaking Performance
Vick achieved a groundbreaking feat on October 31, 2004, becoming the first quarterback to throw for over 250 yards and rush for over 100 yards in a single game.
2004: Gerald Frank Jenkins Establishes Atlantic Wine
In 2004, Gerald Frank Jenkins, a retired surgeon, founded Atlantic Wine. He would later bring on Michael Vick as an investor.
2004: Vick Signs $37 Million Contract with Falcons
In 2004, Michael Vick signed a significant contract with the Atlanta Falcons, including a $37 million signing bonus. Parts of this bonus would later become a point of contention following legal issues.
2004: Contract Dispute and Reimbursement
Following Vick's guilty plea, the Falcons initiated legal proceedings to recover a portion of his signing bonus. An arbitrator ruled in their favor in 2004, mandating Vick to reimburse $19.97 million.
2005: End of Financial Advising
By 2005, Vick's financial advisor Michael Smith resigned due to Vick's disregard for financial planning.
2005: Joel Enterprises Sues Vick
In 2005, sports agency Joel Enterprises filed a $45 million lawsuit against Vick for breach of contract after he attempted to end their agreement shortly after signing.
2005: Third Pro Bowl Selection
Vick's exceptional skills earned him his third Pro Bowl selection in 2005, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's top quarterbacks.
May 2006: Vick Invests in Wine Business
In May 2006, Michael Vick entered into a business partnership and took out a loan to establish a wine shop and restaurant. The venture would later lead to a lawsuit from Wachovia Bank.
June 2006: Establishment of The Vick Foundation
Michael Vick, along with his brother Marcus and mother Brenda, established The Vick Foundation in June 2006. This non-profit organization aimed to support at-risk youth through after-school programs in the Metro Atlanta and Hampton Roads areas. Their first fundraiser, the Michael Vick Golf Classic, was held at the Kingsmill Golf Course and raised over $80,000.
December 2006: Vick's Return to Touchdowns
In a significant comeback moment, Michael Vick scored both a rushing and throwing touchdown in a game against the Atlanta Falcons, marking his first touchdowns since December 2006.
December 2006: Vick's Civil Trial and Arbitration
In December 2006, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled against Vick's motion to dismiss a breach of contract lawsuit filed by his former sports agents, Joel Enterprises. The lawsuit was then settled through binding arbitration, resulting in Vick owing $4.5 million.
2006: Vick Makes Obscene Gesture Towards Fans
In 2006, Vick's reputation suffered when he made an obscene gesture towards Atlanta football fans, contributing to his declining corporate image.
2006: Historic Rushing Season
In 2006, Vick made history by becoming the first quarterback to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season, showcasing his exceptional athleticism.
2006: Lawsuit and Endorsement Issues
In 2006, Vick faced a lawsuit from his former sports agents, and several of his endorsement deals were negatively impacted.
2006: Peak Estimated Annual Income
In 2006, Sports Illustrated estimated Vick's combined earnings from his NFL salary and endorsements to be $25.4 million.
April 16, 2007: Vick and United Way Support Virginia Tech Massacre Victims
In the wake of the tragic Virginia Tech massacre on April 16, 2007, Vick and the United Way demonstrated their compassion and support by donating $10,000 to aid the affected families.
April 25, 2007: Discovery of Dog Fighting Operation
On April 25, 2007, a drug investigation led to the uncovering of a dog fighting operation at Vick's property, sparking a media frenzy and investigations.
July 2007: Federal Indictment in Dog Fighting Case
In July 2007, Vick and three others were indicted on federal charges for running an interstate dog fighting venture, "Bad Newz Kennels," with allegations of financing, participation, and gambling.
July 2007: Escalation of Financial Claims
Following the dog fighting indictment in July 2007, financial claims against Vick escalated, leading to difficulties in meeting his financial obligations.
August 2007: Indefinite Suspension
The NFL suspended Michael Vick indefinitely without pay in August 2007 due to his involvement in a dog fighting ring, a violation of the league's conduct policy.
September 13, 2007: Positive Drug Test and House Arrest
On September 13, 2007, Vick tested positive for marijuana, violating his release conditions. He was put on house arrest and electronic monitoring.
September 20, 2007: Royal Bank of Canada Suces Vick
On September 20, 2007, the Royal Bank of Canada filed a lawsuit against Michael Vick for failing to repay a loan of over $2.3 million that was tied to a real estate deal.
September 25, 2007: Virginia State Charges
On September 25, 2007, Vick faced additional indictments from a Surry County grand jury on state felony charges related to dog fighting.
September 26, 2007: 1st Source Bank Sues Vick
On September 26, 2007, 1st Source Bank filed a federal lawsuit against Michael Vick and his business, Divine Seven LLC, alleging that they had failed to make payments on at least 130 rental vehicles financed through the bank.
October 2007: Wachovia Bank Files Lawsuit Against Vick
In October 2007, Wachovia Bank filed a lawsuit against Vick and a business partner for defaulting on a $1.3 million loan used to finance a wine shop and restaurant venture.
November 2007: Attempts to Sell Property
By November 2007, Vick was facing significant financial strain and resorted to attempting to sell some of his properties, including his Smithfield, Virginia property.
2007: Speculation on Return and CFL Ban
While Vick served his suspension, speculation arose about his potential return to football. However, the CFL banned players suspended by the NFL in 2007.
2007: Involvement in Dog Fighting Ring
Michael Vick's promising NFL career was abruptly interrupted in 2007 when he faced legal trouble for his role in a dog fighting ring. His guilty plea had significant repercussions, including imprisonment and widespread public criticism, casting a shadow over his career.
2007: Newspaper Article Reflects on Vick's Upbringing
In 2007, a poignant article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch revisited Michael Vick's childhood neighborhood, Ridley Circle Homes, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by its residents, even a decade after Vick's rise to fame.
2007: Vick Hires Mary Wong, Leading to Financial Disputes
In 2007, Michael Vick hired Mary Wong as his business manager. Wong's handling of Vick's finances would later become a source of dispute, with allegations of misappropriation of funds.
2007: Start of Alleged Incidents
Beginning in early 2007, Michael Vick was allegedly involved in a series of incidents that would later come to light.
2007: Vick's Corporate Status Deteriorates
Prior to the emergence of the animal cruelty case, Vick experienced a decline in his corporate status in 2007 due to various negative incidents.
April 2008: Vick Hires David Talbot, Who is Later Accused of Fraud
In April 2008, Michael Vick, seeking financial guidance, hired David Talbot, who claimed to have expertise in financial management. It was later revealed that Talbot had provided false information, leading to legal trouble.
May 7, 2008: Court Rules Against Vick in Royal Bank Case
On May 7, 2008, a U.S. District Court ruled against Michael Vick in the lawsuit filed by the Royal Bank of Canada. The court ordered Vick to pay the bank over $2.5 million for defaulting on a loan.
May 2008: Court Rules in Favor of Wachovia
In May 2008, the U.S. District Court in Atlanta issued a summary judgment in favor of Wachovia Bank in their lawsuit against Vick and his business partner regarding a defaulted loan.
June 2008: Financial Support for Family and Friends
In June 2008, it was revealed that Vick was providing financial support for seven friends and relatives, costing him an estimated $30,000 per month.
July 7, 2008: Michael Vick Files for Bankruptcy
On July 7, 2008, facing significant debt and legal challenges, Michael Vick filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a U.S. Bankruptcy Court. His financial struggles were largely due to legal issues and the suspension from the NFL.
August 2008: Trustee Appointed to Manage Vick's Bankruptcy
In August 2008, W. Clarkson McDow Jr. was appointed as trustee to oversee Vick's bankruptcy case. Court documents revealed Vick's reliance on others for financial decisions.
October 14, 2008: Attempt to Resolve State Charges
On October 14, 2008, Vick's attorney attempted to expedite the resolution of state charges against him in hopes of securing an earlier release from federal prison.
November 12, 2008: Vick Files Reorganization Plan
On November 12, 2008, Michael Vick, as part of his bankruptcy proceedings, filed a plan for reorganization. The plan aimed to address his assets, debts, and expenses.
November 2008: Guilty Plea in State Court
In November 2008, Vick was transported back to Virginia to address state charges, ultimately pleading guilty to a felony dog fighting charge, resulting in a suspended sentence, fine, and the dropping of another charge.
February 2009: Potential Trade and Release
The Falcons explored the possibility of trading Vick's contractual rights in February 2009. However, they ultimately released him, making him a free agent.
March 25, 2009: U.S. Department of Labor Sues Vick
The U.S. Department of Labor filed a lawsuit against Vick on March 25, 2009, alleging violations of federal employee benefits laws. The lawsuit claimed that Vick had withdrawn $1.35 million from a retirement plan intended for employees of his company, MV7.
April 2, 2009: Vick's Initial Reorganization Plan Rejected
On April 2, 2009, Michael Vick appeared in court for a hearing regarding his bankruptcy reorganization plan. The judge rejected the plan, deeming it unsound as it heavily relied on Vick's return to the NFL, which was uncertain.
April 3, 2009: Vick and Falcons Reach Settlement
On April 3, 2009, Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons reached a settlement regarding the signing bonus he received in 2004. The Falcons had sought to recover a portion of the bonus due to Vick's suspension from the NFL.
July 20, 2009: Release from Federal Prison
Michael Vick was released from federal prison on July 20, 2009, after serving time for his involvement in dog fighting.
August 13, 2009: Vick Signs With Philadelphia Eagles
On August 13, 2009, Michael Vick signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, marking his return to the NFL after serving a prison sentence. The contract, worth $1.6 million, provided him with an opportunity to revive his career.
October 2009: Nike Provides Complimentary Gear to Vick
Nike began supplying Vick with complimentary gear in October 2009, indicating a potential thawing in their relationship.
2009: Second Chance with the Eagles
After serving time for his involvement in a dog fighting ring, Michael Vick made his return to the NFL in 2009, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles. This marked a new chapter in his career.
2009: Steelers Consider, Then Decline, Signing Vick
In 2009, the Pittsburgh Steelers contemplated signing Michael Vick but ultimately decided against it, citing potential backlash from fans due to his past legal troubles.
January 9, 2010: Eagles' Playoff Loss to Cowboys
Despite Michael Vick throwing the longest touchdown pass of his career in the NFC Wild Card Round game on January 9, 2010, the Eagles lost to the Dallas Cowboys.
2010: Eagles Exercise Vick's Contract Option
The Philadelphia Eagles, recognizing Michael Vick's potential and commitment to the team, exercised his contract option for 2010, furthering his comeback in the NFL.
2010: Vick's Stellar Performance Earns Him Recognition
Michael Vick's exceptional performance throughout 2010, including a standout game against the Washington Redskins, earned him accolades such as NFC Offensive Player of the Week and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
2010: Vick Begins Repaying Creditors
In 2010, following the approval of his revised reorganization plan, Vick began repaying his creditors. He also paid significant sums to his agent and bankruptcy lawyers.
2010: Vick's Second Chance with the Eagles
In 2010, Michael Vick's career with the Philadelphia Eagles continued as he played as a backup quarterback, demonstrating his potential and commitment to the team. This period marked a significant comeback for him in the NFL.
2010: Comeback Player of the Year
In 2010, Michael Vick achieved a significant milestone with the Philadelphia Eagles, leading the team to a division title. His performance earned him the Comeback Player of the Year award and a Pro Bowl selection, demonstrating his resilience.
2010: Financial Strain
By 2010, Vick's financial situation had deteriorated, and he was estimated to be $18.97 million in debt.
January 27, 2011: Vick Signs Endorsement Deal with Unequal Technologies
On January 27, 2011, Vick secured his first endorsement deal after his release from prison with Unequal Technologies, a company specializing in football pads.
March 4, 2011: Vick Receives Bert Bell Award
On March 4, 2011, Michael Vick was honored with the Bert Bell Award, recognizing his exceptional performance and comeback in the NFL.
July 1, 2011: Nike Resigns Vick
In a landmark decision, Nike officially reinstated Vick as an athlete on July 1, 2011, marking the first time the company had re-signed an athlete after previously dropping them.
2011: Vick Leads Eagles to a .500 Season
Despite a challenging start, Michael Vick led the Philadelphia Eagles to a .500 season in 2011, showcasing his leadership and resilience on the field.
2011: Advocacy Against Animal Fighting
In 2011, Vick became an advocate against animal fighting, supporting legislation that would penalize spectators at such events.
2011: Vick Continues Repaying Creditors
Vick continued making payments to creditors, his agent, and bankruptcy lawyers in 2011 as part of his ongoing reorganization plan.
January 1, 2012: Eagles Conclude Season with Victory
The Philadelphia Eagles, led by Michael Vick, concluded their 2011 season with a decisive victory against the Washington Redskins on January 1, 2012.
2012: Vick Launches V7 Clothing Line
In 2012, Vick expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors by launching V7, a sports clothing line sold exclusively at Modell's, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia.
2012: Passage of Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act
The Animal Fighting Spectator Prohibition Act, which Vick had lobbied for, successfully passed in 2012.
2012: Vick's Performance Sparks Debate
Throughout 2012, Michael Vick's performance as the Eagles' starting quarterback was met with mixed reactions, igniting debates about his future with the team and the potential for Nick Foles to take over.
2012: Vick's Repayment Plan Continues
As per his agreed-upon plan, Vick continued making payments to his agent in 2012.
February 11, 2013: Vick Remains an Eagle
On February 11, 2013, Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles agreed to a restructured contract, keeping him with the team for another season and setting the stage for a competition for the starting quarterback position.
March 21, 2014: Vick Signs with New York Jets
Michael Vick signed a one-year contract with the New York Jets on March 21, 2014, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his NFL career.
August 25, 2015: Vick Joins Pittsburgh Steelers
On August 25, 2015, Michael Vick signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, adding his experience to their quarterback roster.
2015: Vick Completes Payments to Agent
Vick fulfilled his financial obligations to his agent in 2015, as stipulated in his reorganization plan.
2016: Vick's Final Season Intention
Initially intending to play one more season in 2016, Michael Vick ultimately did not sign with a team, leading to his eventual retirement from the NFL.
2016: Free Agency
Michael Vick spent the 2016 NFL season as a free agent, contemplating his future in professional football.
February 3, 2017: Vick Announces Retirement
After a long and eventful career, Michael Vick officially retired from professional football on February 3, 2017, marking the end of an era for the talented quarterback.
June 12, 2017: Vick Retires as an Atlanta Falcon
In a symbolic gesture, Michael Vick officially retired as a member of the Atlanta Falcons on June 12, 2017, acknowledging the team where he first gained prominence in the NFL.
June 28, 2017: American Flag Football League Debut
On June 28, 2017, Michael Vick began his journey in the American Flag Football League, serving as captain for Team Vick.
2017: Coaching Internship and Broadcast Career
In 2017, Vick explored coaching by interning with his former coach Andy Reid at the Kansas City Chiefs' training camp. He also transitioned into media as an NFL analyst for Fox NFL Kickoff on FS1.
2017: Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame Induction
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Virginia Tech's football program, Michael Vick was inducted into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.
2017: Official Retirement
Michael Vick officially announced his retirement from the NFL in 2017, after a season as a free agent. This marked the end of his professional football career.
April 25, 2018: Alliance of American Football Coaching Role
On April 25, 2018, Vick was named offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Legends of the Alliance of American Football but transitioned to a consultant role before the season began.