NC State Set to Hire Philip Rivers as Next Football Coach

NC State nearing deal to hire ex-NFL quarterback Philip Rivers as head football coach, per ESPN report.

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NC State is on the verge of finalizing a deal to hire former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers as its next head football coach, according to a report from ESPN. The hiring, which has been widely anticipated, is expected to be finalized during the NC State Board of Trustees meeting on Friday. This would mark Rivers’ first foray into college football coaching.

Rivers, who played for the Wolfpack from 2000 to 2003, recently completed his sixth season as head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama. Under his leadership, the team advanced to the state semifinals in both 2024 and 2025, having built the program from the ground up. ESPN sources indicate that while the deal has not yet been officially completed, it is expected to be finalized in the upcoming trustees meeting.

Rivers, a future Hall of Famer, has earned praise for his ability to lead and motivate young athletes. His success at the high school level has raised questions about his potential to translate that energy to the college level, particularly in the context of the current NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) landscape, which is heavily focused on financial incentives for student-athletes.

BREAKING: Philip Rivers has accepted the NC State head coaching job, returning to his alma mater, @Clowfb and @PeteNakos report🐺 An official announcement is expected in the near future. https://t.co/yV8eGt4uae

@On3 on X

While some may remain skeptical about the move, given the distinct nature of high school and college football, many acknowledge Rivers’ leadership skills and his ability to command respect. His experience as a multi-time Pro Bowler and his success in building a program from nothing have positioned him as a strong candidate for the Wolfpack’s future.

If Rivers can adapt well to the challenges of college football, the Wolfpack could be looking at a new era of success, potentially transforming the program into a powerhouse once again.

Source: Daily Caller