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Michael Vick

Early Life and College Career

Michael Dwayne Vick, born on June 26, 1980, in Newport News, Virginia, is a former American football quarterback known for his dynamic playing style and groundbreaking career. Vick first gained national attention as a college football player at Virginia Tech. As a redshirt freshman in 1999, he led the Hokies to an unbeaten regular season and was named third in the Heisman Trophy voting. He showcased exceptional athleticism and field awareness, scoring three rushing touchdowns in just one quarter during a game against James Madison University. Although he sustained a minor ankle injury during that game, it did little to slow his ascent.

Related Biography: Antonio Brown

Education

Vick began his education and early football career at Ferguson High School in Newport News. As a sophomore, he stunned spectators by passing for over 400 yards in a single game. After Ferguson High School closed in 1996, Vick transferred to Warwick High School, where he continued to develop under the guidance of his coach, Tommy Reamon. With Reamon’s mentorship, Vick secured a football scholarship and enrolled at Virginia Tech, not the University of Virginia as is sometimes misstated.

NFL Draft and Early Career

Michael Vick made history in 2001 when he was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, becoming the first African-American quarterback to be chosen No. 1 overall. The San Diego Chargers originally held the top selection but traded the pick to Atlanta. Vick's draft day also included a brief mention in baseball circles—he was selected in the 30th round of the 2000 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies, though he never pursued a professional baseball career.

Vick made his NFL debut on September 9, 2001, against the San Francisco 49ers. He saw limited action early on but soon found his stride. His first league touchdown came on a 2-yard rush against the Carolina Panthers, a game in which he also threw his first completed pass to wide receiver Tony Martin. His first career start came against the Dallas Cowboys, where he threw a touchdown pass to tight end Alge Crumpler and led the Falcons to a 20-13 victory.

Atlanta Falcons and Pro Bowl Success

During his six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, Vick became one of the NFL's most electrifying players. He was particularly known for his speed and agility, making him one of the fastest quarterbacks in league history. He led the Falcons to two playoff appearances and was selected to the Pro Bowl three times (2002, 2004, and 2005). His ability to extend plays and scramble provided a unique challenge for defenses and earned him a devoted fan following.


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 26 Jun, 1980
Age: 39 yrs
Occupations: American football player
Offensive coordinator
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Newport News
Education: Warwick High School
Gender: Male
Description: American football quarterback and convicted felon
Twitter Id: Mikevick
Net Worth 2021: 16 million
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Last Modified: Oct 25 2025
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