NC State and Philip Rivers Continue Coaching Talks, Sources Say
Sources report that NC State and former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers are set to resume discussions about the vacant head-coach position, with momentum still favoring Rivers as a candidate.
NC State and former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers are expected to resume negotiations over the university's vacant football head-coach role, according to sources cited by CBS Sports. The outlet said the two sides will have further communication in the near future and that momentum currently favors Rivers, though no agreement has been reached.
Rivers, who left a 17-year NFL career to coach at the high-school level in Alabama, has been linked to the job since the firing of Dave Doeren. He has been coaching his son, four-star recruit Gunner Rivers, at St. Michael Catholic School, where he helped improve a program that had not recorded a winning season before his arrival.
Analysts note that hiring a first-time college head coach from the high-school ranks carries risk, citing past examples such as Trent Dilfer at UAB. However, they also point to Rivers' reputation as a cerebral quarterback and his ability to motivate players and attract attention from boosters, which could aid recruiting and NIL efforts.
"The two sides are expected to have further communication in the near future," CBS Sports reporter Matt Zenitz wrote. "There's continued momentum at the moment toward Rivers ultimately being the hire, sources tell CBS Sports. Nothing is final at this point, though."
Commentary from CBS Sports columnist John Talty highlighted the importance of assembling a strong coaching and support staff around Rivers, suggesting that a seasoned defensive coordinator or a general manager experienced with NIL and personnel matters would be crucial.
The Wolfpack, which finished in the lower third of the ACC in recent roster rankings, are looking for a candidate who can revitalize the program after Doeren's 14-year tenure. Rivers' recent interview for the Buffalo Bills head-coach vacancy and his high profile are seen as potential assets for the university.
Rivers' high-school team, St. Michael, is slated to begin its playoff run, and NC State fans will have to wait for further updates on whether the former quarterback will become the next head coach.