Norfolk State University has announced its new football coaching staff, led by Coach Michael Vick. The team of experienced coaches, including several former NFL players, reflects a commitment to building a competitive program on the field and fostering growth off it.

  

“They are going to put these guys in a position to win,” Vick said. “We all have the same mindset, and I felt it was only right to hire guys who thought like me and want to lead like me.”

 Michael Vick
 

Terence Garvin takes the role of defensive coordinator after serving as co-defensive coordinator at Florida Memorial University, where his defense led the SUN Conference in forced fumbles and ranked second in interceptions. Garvin, a six-year NFL veteran, brings professional and collegiate experience to Norfolk State.

Elton Brown, a former All-American at the University of Virginia and NFL player with the Arizona Cardinals, steps in as offensive line coach. Brown most recently coached at the Apprentice School, where his offense set a school record by averaging 37.8 points per game in 2022.

Jabo Smith joins as the defensive backs coach, having worked with Garvin at Florida Memorial. There, he helped mentor standout cornerback Marcell Blocker, the 2024 SUN Conference Defensive Back of the Year.

Izaan Cross, who played for Georgia Tech and the Buffalo Bills, will bring his experience to the program, drawing from his time coaching at North Atlanta High School and leading youth development at TrueEdge Sports.

LaRoy Reynolds will oversee the linebackers, leveraging a nine-year NFL career and experience coaching through the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Seattle Seahawks and Dallas Cowboys. 

Darryl Bullock joins the staff as offensive line coach and run game coordinator, coming from Hampton University, where his run game averaged nearly 200 yards per game last season. Bullock also has coached at several other historically Black colleges and universities.

Steve Adams continues his role as special teams coach and recruiting coordinator. Under his guidance last season, the Spartans recorded 21 turnovers, including 13 interceptions.

Rounding out the staff is DeMarcus McMillan, the new director of football operations, who brings experience in project management and youth sports development, including a stint with Virginia Tech’s football program.

With a mix of professional experience and proven leadership, Norfolk State’s coaching staff is set to help the program take strides forward in the seasons ahead.