As NC State looks for its next head coach, the connection between the school and one of the program's most decorated quarterbacks, Philip Rivers, continues to grow.
Rivers, 44, took questions from the media after St. Michael's Catholic High School's first-round loss in Alabama's Double-A playoffs. The former Chargers great and current high school head coach offered insight into where the conversation has been between him and his alma mater as it searches for its next bench boss.
"We met and visited," Rivers said. "I've known some of those guys for a while now. Obviously, it was good to visit with them, but there's really nothing else to report at this point."
Rivers, who is reportedly at the center of the Wolfpack's search, went into detail about how NC State leadership spoke with him on Wednesday about the open position.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) stands on the sideline during an NFL game against the Cleveland Browns in Cleveland, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
His son, Gunner Rivers, is an NC State Class of 2027 commit, and the eight-time Pro Bowler confirmed that the opportunity to coach Gunner in college is "certainly" a factor in his decision.
But Rivers said, "I wouldn't call that the deciding factor. But certainly would be special."
"[I] really was looking forward to this playoff run, and it all comes to an end tonight," Rivers added. "But we'll see. We'll see what the future holds."
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) leaves the field after losing to the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Dec. 22, 2025. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Rivers' high school head coaching role keeps him close to his big family, and when it comes to another potential career-altering decision, Rivers said, "It is a lot. Could be a lot."
NC State fired coach Dave Doeren on Oct. 24, after a disappointing 31-28 loss at Stanford. The Wolfpack fired defensive coordinator DJ Eliot one day later.
The university then named Todd Goebbel interim head coach, with Charlton Warren taking over defensive coordinator duties.
NC State has also reportedly interviewed another NFL quarterback — and ex-Wolkpack signal-caller — in Russell Wilson for the head coaching job .
