NC State considers former star quarterback Philip Rivers for its head coach position following Dave Doeren's departure.

North Carolina State will reportedly consider former Wolfpack quarterback Philip Rivers for their open football head coach position after firing longtime program leader Dave Doeren on Saturday night.

The 44-year-old Rivers has built a successful coaching career at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, since 2001, guiding the program to a strong 49-18 record over recent seasons.

This potential coaching move gains significant traction because his son, four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers, is already firmly committed to enroll at NC State next year, according to information published by bleache.

Philip Rivers college and NFL playing career

Rivers enjoyed a standout collegiate career at NC State, capped by earning the prestigious 2003 ACC Player of the Year honors before transitioning to a long and successful professional career.

He played 16 seasons for the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers from 2004 to 2019, earning Pro Bowl honors in half of those seasons as one of the league's most durable and productive quarterbacks.

After initially retiring following a season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020, Rivers made a surprising return to the NFL to help finish the 2025 season after an injury to the team's starting quarterback.

Coaching success at St. Michael Catholic High School

Rivers has proven his ability on the sidelines by leading St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, compiling an impressive 49-18 overall record since taking over the program.

His coaching capabilities were further highlighted when the St. Michael teams reached the Class 4A semifinals in the state playoffs during both the 2024 and 2025 high school football seasons.

While transitioning from high school to the collegiate level presents a vastly different and much harder challenge, Rivers possesses a tremendous football resume and pedigree to command immediate respect.

Gunner Rivers commitment to the Wolfpack

The coaching rumors are heavily tied to family ties, as his son Gunner Rivers is a highly touted four-star quarterback set to enroll at NC State in the near future.

Gunner is currently ranked 12th overall among all quarterbacks in the class of 2027, according to the latest 247Sports Composite rankings, showcasing immense talent for the upcoming college level.

As ESPN analyst Pete Thamel implied regarding the coaching search, NC State should likely cast a wide net, but Rivers remains an intriguing and potentially home run pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a potential candidate for the NC State head coach job?

Former Wolfpack quarterback and St. Michael Catholic High School coach Philip Rivers is reportedly being considered for the open NC State head coach position.

Why is Philip Rivers linked to the NC State coaching vacancy?

Rivers is connected to the job because he is a legendary program alumnus and his son, four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers, is committed to play for NC State.

Where has Philip Rivers been coaching football?

Rivers has served as the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, since 2021, compiling a 49-18 record.

When did NC State open its head coaching position?

NC State opened its football head coach position after firing longtime program leader Dave Doeren on Saturday night.