December 29th 2024.
Desean Jackson and Michael Vick have recently accepted job offers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), just a week apart from each other. This is a significant reminder that HBCUs are not afraid to take risks on talented individuals, even if they have no prior experience as head coaches and come from a professional football background. Jackson, who used to play in the NFL as a wide receiver, officially signed on as a coach on December 26th.
According to sources at The Athletic, Jackson released a statement expressing his belief that HBCUs still have a lot to offer in terms of producing successful scholars and athletes. He understands that HBCUs have a rich history in shaping a more diverse America, but he also recognizes that this story is far from over. Jackson sees this opportunity at Delaware State University (DSU) as a once-in-a-lifetime moment, perfectly aligned with his own journey from a young boy to a man, shaped by mentorship, accountability, achievement, and discipline.
Apart from Deion Sanders' successful tenure at Jackson State University, where he brought a lot of attention, resources, and highly talented prospects to the HBCU, the other prime example for both Vick and Jackson is Eddie George at Tennessee State. Not long ago, George led the team to a remarkable 9-4 record, their first Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Championship, and their first-ever appearance in the FCS playoffs.
Both Vick and Jackson will be taking over programs that have had disappointing seasons. Norfolk State University had a record of 15-31 over the past four years, while Delaware State University had a rough 1-11 season last year. Therefore, they will not be expected to immediately compete for a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) title, giving them the necessary time to develop their teams.
Tony Tucker, the Athletic Director at Delaware State, believes that Jackson is the perfect fit for what the university stands for. He describes him as a highly competitive individual who is optimistic about the future of the institution and always puts students first. On the other hand, Vick, who hails from Newport News, Virginia, will be returning to the area where he made a name for himself as a transformative quarterback. Eventually, he took his exceptional talent to Virginia Tech, playing under the guidance of head coach Frank Beamer.
Shane Beamer, the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks and a close friend of Vick, has voiced his support for Norfolk State's decision to hire the former NFL quarterback. He recalls Vick speaking to the team in August of 2021, and he could tell then that Vick had a passion for coaching. Beamer is confident that Vick will excel at Norfolk State.
Vick's coaching staff at Norfolk State will also include his former high school coach and longtime mentor, Tommy Reamon. Reamon believes that Vick's charisma will make him an excellent recruiter for the team. He mentions that they have discussed Deion Sanders' successful situation many times, and he sees Vick as the perfect example of someone who can use their talent and charisma to become a successful head coach in today's football landscape. Reamon is confident that Vick will be able to relate to players and their families, making him an effective recruiter.
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