NC State Appoints Former NFL Quarterback Philip Rivers as Head Coach

North Carolina State announced the hiring of former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers as the program's new head coach. The decision comes after the university parted ways with head coach Dave Doeren following a 14-year tenure, quickly zeroing in on Rivers as a primary candidate.

Rivers, 44, brings a unique resume to the collegiate level, having transitioned directly into coaching high school football after a storied 17-year NFL career with the Chargers and Colts. His coaching trajectory gained significant attention last year when he interviewed for the Buffalo Bills' head coaching vacancy before withdrawing from the process in January. Furthermore, Rivers made a surprise return to the NFL to play in three games for the Indianapolis Colts during the 2025 season, completing 58 of 92 pass attempts for 544 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions.

As an alumnus who played for the Wolfpack from 2000 to 2003 before being selected in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft, Rivers returns to his alma mater with deep personal ties. Notably, his son is committed to join the program as a quarterback for the 2027 season. During his illustrious professional playing career, Rivers earned eight Pro Bowl selections, appearing in 247 games while throwing for 63,440 yards and 425 touchdowns.

What to watch next: Watch for how Rivers fills out his collegiate coaching staff and shapes the Wolfpack's recruiting strategy moving forward.