Philip Rivers, a former North Carolina State University quarterback and NFL standout, has emerged as a leading candidate for the Wolfpack’s vacant head coaching position following Dave Doeren’s firing last week. Rivers, currently head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama, addressed speculation about the NC State job during a public appearance on Friday.
Philip Rivers remains focused on current season as NC State considers him for head coach role
Rivers, speaking to reporter Ben Thomas after a high school football game, stated there were no imminent plans regarding the NC State position. “There’s nothing there at this point,” he said. “You understand the chatter that’s out there. Gotta take it one day at a time is all I know. I’m excited about this postseason with these guys here. You never say never, but there’s nothing imminent.” Rivers has led St. Michael Catholic since 2021 and is in his sixth season as head coach.
NC State’s search intensifies as donors explore NIL funding to attract Rivers
While Rivers downplayed the speculation, reporting from multiple outlets indicates NC State’s athletic department and boosters are actively exploring ways to make Rivers a competitive candidate. According to On3, sources within the Wolfpack’s donor base have discussed raising funds through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives to enhance the program’s appeal. These conversations reportedly involve Rivers’ representation and gauge donor interest in supporting a potential hire.
Rivers attended NC State from 2000 to 2003, where he became a standout quarterback before being selected fourth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. His NFL career spanned 17 seasons, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and ranking eighth all-time in passing yards. Earlier this year, Rivers interviewed for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching vacancy but was not hired, with Joe Brady ultimately selected as the replacement for Sean McDermott.
Background: NC State fires Dave Doeren after 14 seasons
Dave Doeren, NC State’s all-time winningest coach, was fired on November 26 after 14 seasons at the helm. Under Doeren, the Wolfpack compiled a 95-60 record, including nine bowl appearances and three ACC division titles. His departure leaves the program in transition as administrators evaluate candidates for the next head coach.
The search for Doeren’s successor remains ongoing, with no announced timeline for a decision. Rivers’ candidacy adds a high-profile option to the mix, though he has emphasized his commitment to completing the current high school football season.