Russell Wilson, a Super Bowl champion and former NC State quarterback, interviewed for the Wolfpack's head coaching vacancy on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The development follows reports that Philip Rivers, another NC State football legend, is also a serious candidate for the position.
The Wolfpack fired Dave Doeren on October 24 after a 3-4 start to the season. The program has not yet named a permanent replacement, though multiple reports indicate momentum toward hiring either Wilson or Rivers.
Wilson’s College and NFL Career
Wilson played for NC State from 2008 to 2010, earning ACC Rookie and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2008. He transferred to Wisconsin in 2011, where he won a Big Ten title before being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Wilson spent 10 seasons in Seattle, leading the team to two Super Bowl appearances and one victory. He was selected to 10 Pro Bowls and retired from the NFL in June 2024 after brief stints with the Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants. Wilson currently works as a broadcaster for CBS Sports.
Rivers’ Coaching and Playing Background
Philip Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowl quarterback, played 18 seasons in the NFL with the Chargers and Colts. He was selected fourth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft after a four-year tenure at NC State, where he threw for 13,484 yards and 95 touchdowns. His No. 17 jersey was retired by the program. Rivers has coached high school football at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama for six seasons, leading the team to consecutive state semifinals. He interviewed for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching job last offseason before withdrawing. Rivers’ son, Gunner, is committed to NC State for 2027.
Search Process and Next Steps
The NC State athletic department has not confirmed a timeline for a hire. Athletic director Boo Corrigan has indicated interest in program icons, with both Wilson and Rivers emerging as top candidates. Rivers has stated he wants to complete his high school team’s postseason before making a decision. CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported that discussions between NC State and Rivers are expected to continue, with "continued momentum" toward a hire.
The search comes amid a broader college football coaching carousel, with multiple programs making recent head coaching changes. NC State’s decision is pending further interviews and internal deliberations.