Former QB Philip Rivers nearing return to NC State as next football coach, reports say
WRAL • • sports
Key Points:
- NC State is reportedly close to hiring former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers as its next head football coach, pending approval from the university's Board of Trustees. Rivers would replace Dave Doeren, who was fired after 14 seasons with the Wolfpack.
- Rivers, 44, has no prior college coaching experience but has led St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama to significant success, including consecutive state semifinal appearances. His hiring is seen as a move to bring excitement and star power to the NC State program.
- Rivers has strong family ties to the program, with his son Gunner committed to NC State as a four-star recruit. Rivers expressed that coaching his son at the college level would be special but not the deciding factor in his decision.
- NC State aims to elevate its football program to compete for ACC championships and College Football Playoff berths, committing to increased financial investment and infrastructure to support this goal amid an expanding playoff format.
- Rivers is a celebrated NC State alumnus, holding multiple school records and having his jersey retired; his return as coach is expected to generate enthusiasm and financial support for the program.
