Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick is the focus of a new docuseries titled ”Evolution of the Black Quarterback,” which premiered on Amazon Prime Video. However, Vick emphasizes that he did not pave the way for Black quarterbacks alone. The series explores the history and challenges faced by Black quarterbacks in the NFL, featuring interviews with experts such as Dr. Todd Boyd, Dr. Damion Thomas, Steve Wyche, and Jarrett Bell.
Vick reflects on his own place in NFL history and acknowledges his triumphs and mistakes. He was particularly moved during the Super Bowl following the 2022 season when two Black quarterbacks, Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, faced off against each other for the first time in Super Bowl history.
The docuseries takes viewers on a journey through various locations significant to Black quarterback history, including Philadelphia where Vick played after serving time in prison, Washington D.C.’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, California’s Rose Bowl stadium, and Grambling State University in Louisiana.
The series sheds light on pioneers like Fritz Pollard as well as lesser-known figures such as Willie Thrower and Marlin Briscoe who received limited opportunities due to systemic racism during Jim Crow era.
Testimonies from modern-era Black NFL quarterbacks like Doug Williams, Warren Moon, Donovan McNabb are also featured along with insights from Super Bowl-winning coach Tony Dungy. The project was produced by Michael Strahan’s company SMAC Productions.
Vick hopes that this docuseries will highlight how all Black quarterbacks have contributed to changing and revolutionizing their position in football. He wants viewers to understand that it wasn’t just him but a collective effort by many individuals throughout history.
