Philip Rivers emerges as candidate for college football coaching job

Philip Rivers played nearly 20 seasons in the NFL as a Pro Bowl quarterback, and now he could be transitioning to a college football head-coaching role. 

After retiring from the NFL for the first time, Rivers was the head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School. He then returned to play for the Indianapolis Colts in 2025 in a stunning move. Then, Rivers interviewed for the Buffalo Bills' head-coach opening in January before they hired Joe Brady. 

Philip Rivers is linked to his alma mater

On Saturday, North Carolina State coach Dave Doeren was fired after putting together a 98-74 record over 14 seasons. Several candidates have emerged, but Rivers' name has been a consistent sight among the job profiles. 

ESPN's Adam Rittenberg, Max Olson and Eli Lederman had Rivers on top of the five-candidate list. 

"The name recognition alone would bring more attention -- and likely more money -- to NC State, where Rivers was a record-setting quarterback before a long and productive NFL career. Since 2021, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Alabama, including his son Gunner, an SC Next 300 prospect who is committed to NC State for 2027. The father-son combination could appeal to NC State, especially if Rivers, 44, can build a strong staff. Unconventional hires are becoming more common, especially if the areas around the coach are properly addressed. Rivers interviewed for the Buffalo Bills' head-coaching job in January."

On3's Pete Nakos also said Rivers will be "among the top names" for the opening, and bringing back the ex-NC State star QB would be an exciting move for the fan base. NC State has not crossed the 10-win threshold since 2002, and now the program faces an important decision after moving on from Doeren.