Newport News native Michael Vick was the first African American quarterback to be taken with the top pick when he was selected first in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. Vick, a Warwick High grad, played 13 seasons in the NFL after starring at Virginia Tech. A three-time Pro Bowl pick, he was the first NFL quarterback to rush for 1,000 yards in a season. He also held the record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game (173) and single-season rushing yards (1,039) for a quarterback. Both have since been broken. Vick still holds the record for most career rushing yards by a quarterback with 6,109.
Larry Rubama, staff
To commemorate Black History Month, The Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press will highlight a person, place or event related to local black history. Help us by suggesting an item and sending it to daily.break@pilotonline.com or filling out the online form at www.pilotonline.com/ask.
