- May 21, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
Philip Rivers is in serious discussions to become the next head coach at NC State, though sources told ESPN that an agreement remains distant.
The former Wolfpack quarterback, who starred in Raleigh from 2000 to 2003, has never coached at the college level. He is currently in his sixth season at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, where he has guided the Cardinals to state playoff semifinals in back-to-back years.
Rivers, 44, has informed NC State that he intends to complete his high school season first. He emerged as the early favorite to replace Dave Doeren, who was dismissed on October 24 after 14 years. Sources indicated that Rivers has not yet met face-to-face with university officials, though there has been contact regarding potential staff construction.
"NC State's special to me," Rivers told Al.com. He acknowledged the speculation but emphasized his focus on St. Michael's postseason run, adding, "You never say never, but there's nothing imminent."
Rivers' son Gunner, who committed to NC State in February, suffered a season-ending knee injury. Philip Rivers holds numerous NC State and ACC passing records and played 17 NFL seasons before retiring in 2020.
Mickey's Angle: Rivers brings instant credibility and recruiting appeal, but hiring a coach with zero college experience is a gamble NC State fans should watch closely before forming expectations.
Source: ESPN (also reported by CBS Sports) - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.