Michael Vick is a name that remains etched in the minds of football fans and sports enthusiasts alike. Known for his electric speed, cannon arm, and game-changing ability as a quarterback, Vick revolutionized the position during his time in the NFL. However, his life and career have been marked by both incredible highs and significant lows, including his involvement in a dogfighting scandal that led to a prison sentence. Michael Vick Today has reinvented himself, and his journey post-football has been a mix of redemption, advocacy, and professional ventures.
In this article, we will explore what Michael Vick is doing today, how his past continues to influence his present, and how he is shaping his legacy after football.
A Quick Recap of Michael Vick’s NFL Career
Before diving into Michael Vick’s current life, it’s essential to revisit his illustrious NFL career. Vick was drafted as the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. He quickly became one of the most dynamic players in the league, known for his ability to both pass and run. His unique combination of athleticism and quarterback skills helped redefine the quarterback position.
Vick’s career hit a major roadblock in 2007 when he was implicated in a dogfighting ring, which resulted in a 21-month prison sentence and his suspension from the NFL. After serving his time, Vick made an improbable comeback with the Philadelphia Eagles, earning Pro Bowl honors and cementing his place in football history.
Vick officially retired from football in 2017, leaving behind a legacy that is as complicated as it is remarkable. But what has Michael Vick been up to since hanging up his cleats?
Michael Vick Today: Career and Business Ventures
1. Media Analyst for NFL
Since retiring from professional football, Michael Vick has seamlessly transitioned into the world of sports media. Today, he is a familiar face as an NFL analyst, regularly appearing on Fox Sports. Vick provides insightful commentary on the game, leveraging his vast knowledge and unique perspective as a former player. His analysis often focuses on quarterback play, where he draws from his own experiences as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks to ever play the game.
Vick’s presence on television has helped rehabilitate his public image, and many fans appreciate his candid and thoughtful takes on the modern NFL. As a media personality, Vick has proven himself to be a respected voice in football analysis, and his role at Fox Sports has solidified his post-football career in the sports world.
2. Coaching and Mentorship
In addition to his work as a media analyst, Michael Vick has also expressed a desire to give back to the game of football through coaching and mentorship. Over the past few years, Vick has worked with various young quarterbacks, offering his expertise and guidance. He has participated in several football camps and clinics aimed at developing the next generation of athletes.
One notable example of his coaching involvement came when Vick joined the Kansas City Chiefs coaching staff as a coaching intern during the 2017 season. Working alongside Andy Reid, one of the NFL’s most respected coaches, Vick gained valuable experience on the coaching side of the game. Though he hasn’t taken on a full-time coaching position, his involvement in mentoring younger players has been a significant part of his post-NFL life.
3. Entrepreneurial Ventures
Outside of football, Michael Vick has also ventured into the world of business. He has invested in several entrepreneurial endeavors, including partnerships in the clothing industry and real estate. Vick launched his own clothing line called V7, which focuses on athletic wear and casual clothing. The brand has been successful in tapping into Vick’s fanbase and sports enthusiasts looking for high-quality, performance-driven apparel.
Additionally, Vick has also made investments in real estate and other business ventures, expanding his portfolio beyond the football field. His entrepreneurial spirit has allowed him to diversify his income streams and stay active in the business world.
4. Public Speaking and Advocacy
Perhaps one of the most significant ways Michael Vick has redefined his post-football life is through his work as a public speaker and animal rights advocate. After serving his prison sentence for his involvement in the dogfighting ring, Vick made a public commitment to using his platform to raise awareness about animal cruelty and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
In partnership with organizations like the Humane Society of the United States, Vick has traveled across the country speaking about his past mistakes and advocating for stronger animal welfare laws. While some animal rights activists continue to criticize Vick, others have acknowledged the genuine efforts he has made to atone for his past actions.
Vick has also used his voice to speak to at-risk youth, sharing his story as a cautionary tale and encouraging young people to make better choices. His public speaking engagements often focus on themes of redemption, second chances, and the consequences of poor decisions.
5. Family Life
On the personal front, Michael Vick has placed a strong emphasis on family since retiring from the NFL. He is a devoted husband to his wife Kijafa Vick, whom he married in 2012. The couple has four children together, and Vick often shares glimpses of his family life on social media.
Family has played a significant role in Vick’s redemption arc, as he has credited his wife and children for helping him stay grounded and focused on building a positive legacy. Vick’s family life today reflects a man who is committed to personal growth and maintaining a stable, supportive environment for his loved ones.
6. Philanthropy and Charitable Work
Michael Vick’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond animal rights advocacy. He has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives aimed at supporting underserved communities and at-risk youth. Vick founded the Michael Vick Foundation, which focuses on providing educational and financial resources to young people in need.
In addition, Vick has participated in numerous charity events, fundraisers, and community outreach programs. His foundation has sponsored programs that provide academic scholarships, youth sports leagues, and mentorship opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through these efforts, Vick has shown a commitment to giving back to society and helping others avoid the mistakes he made.
Vick’s Legacy: Redemption and Controversy
Even as Michael Vick builds a new life post-football, his legacy remains complicated. The dogfighting scandal that marred his career is still a point of contention for many, and there are those who will never forgive him for his involvement. However, Vick’s journey of redemption and his willingness to take responsibility for his actions have earned him a measure of public forgiveness and respect.
Today, Vick’s legacy is one of both athletic excellence and personal growth. As one of the most influential quarterbacks in NFL history, Vick’s impact on the game cannot be denied. At the same time, his life story serves as a reminder that people can change, learn from their mistakes, and use their platform to do good in the world.
Conclusion
Michael Vick today is far more than just a former NFL quarterback. He is a media analyst, entrepreneur, coach, philanthropist, and public speaker. His life after football has been focused on building a legacy of redemption, one that emphasizes personal growth and giving back to society. While his past will always be a part of his story, Vick continues to make positive strides in both his professional and personal life.
