Former NC State quarterback Philip Rivers discusses potential coaching role after high school playoff loss
Philip Rivers said his future with NC State's football program remains uncertain following a meeting with university officials and a playoff defeat for his high school team.
Former NC State quarterback Philip Rivers watched his St. Michael Catholic High School team lose 42-35 to The Glenwood School in the Alabama state playoffs on Friday night. After the game, Rivers said he was focused on the present and would see what the future holds, adding, "It’s been a heck of a six years. I know that and just trying to be where my feet are right now."
Rivers met with NC State officials, including athletics director Boo Corrigan, in Alabama on Wednesday to discuss the Wolfpack’s head-coaching vacancy that opened after the university dismissed Dave Doeren on Oct. 24. Although Rivers has no collegiate or professional coaching experience, he has been mentioned as a leading candidate.
When asked if a next step was possible, Rivers replied, "There could be. I think that the potential next step would involve all of those things you referenced," referring to family considerations. His brother Scott serves on the St. Michael coaching staff, and Rivers has a large extended family in northern Alabama.
Rivers also praised his son Gunner, a four-star quarterback who started in the playoff game, saying, "I thought he played pretty dang good, to be honest with you. He made some good throws and grew as a person through this."
The former NFL quarterback, 44, highlighted that the chance to coach his son at NC State would be a factor in any decision, though he said it would not be the sole determinant.
NC State’s Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet on Nov. 12 and 13 to approve a contract for the next head coach. The university has pledged financial resources and infrastructure support for the football program, according to a letter from Corrigan and Chancellor Kevin Howell.
Rivers, who spent 18 seasons in the NFL and retired with nearly 64,000 passing yards, remains a prominent figure in Wolfpack history, with his No. 17 jersey retired by the school.