Former Wolfpack quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Philip Rivers interview for NC State head coach position
Russell Wilson and Philip Rivers, both former NC State quarterbacks, have been reported to interview for the university's vacant head-coaching job following the dismissal of Dave Doeren.
NC State is actively pursuing high-profile candidates for its head-coaching vacancy after the university dismissed longtime coach Dave Doeren following a loss to Stanford that left the team 3-4. Former Wolfpack quarterback Russell Wilson, a Super Bowl-winning NFL player who retired last season and now works as a CBS studio analyst, has been reported to interview for the position, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Wilson, who played three seasons at NC State before a final collegiate year at Wisconsin, would be advised in the search by former teammate and CBS colleague Bill Cowher.
Philip Rivers, another former Wolfpack quarterback and eight-time Pro Bowler, is also in "serious discussions" about the job, according to ESPN. Rivers spent his entire college career at NC State and is regarded as one of the program's most celebrated athletes. He has coaching experience at the high-school level, having led St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama, where his son Gunner Rivers currently plays quarterback and has committed to NC State for 2027.
Both candidates bring strong ties to the university but lack extensive college-coaching experience. Wilson has no prior coaching or executive leadership roles, while Rivers' coaching background is limited to high school. NC State appears prepared to evaluate both prospects as it seeks a new direction for its football program.