Michael Vick's New Docuseries Explores the Evolution of Black Quarterbacks in the NFL

Retired NFL quarterback Michael Vick has embarked on a significant project to chronicle the history and impact of Black quarterbacks in the NFL. His new docuseries, Evolution of the Black Quarterback, premiered on September 24, 2024, exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.

This three-part docuseries is a personal and historical journey for Vick, who reflects on his own role in paving the way for future generations of Black quarterbacks. Vick's career, marked by both triumphs and controversies, including his time with the Atlanta Falcons and his subsequent imprisonment for dogfighting, serves as a backdrop for the broader narrative of Black quarterbacks in the NFL.

A Historical Perspective

The docuseries delves into the rich history of Black quarterbacks, highlighting pioneers such as Doug Williams, the first Black starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl, and Warren Moon, who broke numerous barriers during his career. Vick travels across the country, visiting significant locations like the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., and Grambling State University in Louisiana, to explore the systemic racism that once excluded Black athletes from the quarterback position.

Experts such as Dr. Todd Boyd from the University of Southern California and Dr. Damion Thomas from the National Museum of African American History and Culture provide insightful commentary on the historical context and the struggles faced by Black quarterbacks. The series also features interviews with modern-era Black NFL quarterbacks, including Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Cam Newton, and Russell Wilson.

Celebrating Progress and Envisioning the Future

Vick's docuseries not only celebrates the progress made by Black quarterbacks but also looks to the future. The series includes testimonials from current stars like Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels, who were selected first and second in the 2024 NFL draft, respectively. This new generation of quarterbacks is a testament to the changing landscape of the NFL, where Black quarterbacks are now more prevalent than ever.

The docuseries is produced by SMAC Productions, with Michael Strahan, Constance Schwartz-Morini, and FredAnthony Smith serving as executive producers. It features additional commentary from celebrities and football stars like Jamie Foxx, Common, Larry Wilmore, and Deion Sanders.

Availability and Impact

All three episodes of Evolution of the Black Quarterback are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. The series is a must-watch for football fans and history buffs alike, offering a vibrant and engaging history lesson that spans the nation.

Vick's initiative to 'pay homage to those that came before me' and to 'give this generation a chance to hear the stories of these guys' underscores the importance of this docuseries. It serves as a tribute to the pioneers and a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and representation in the NFL.