Philip Rivers’ son officially announces where he will play college football

Yahoo! Sports - News, Scores, Standings, Rumors, Fantasy Games

27 February 2026 at 17:17

The Rivers legacy is officially headed back to Raleigh. Gunnar Rivers, the son of longtime NFL quarterback Philip Rivers, has announced his commitment to the NC State Wolfpack, choosing to follow in his father’s footsteps and continue the family tradition in the red and white. Let’s examine what this means for Gunnar, NC State, and the Rivers family.

MORE: 4 blockbuster NFL trades we want to see before the 2026 draft

A Full-Circle Moment

Oct 28, 2012; Cleveland, OH, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) during a game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Cleveland won 7-6. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

For Wolfpack fans, the news carries both excitement and nostalgia. Philip Rivers starred at NC State from 2000 to 2003, setting school and ACC records while establishing himself as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in conference history. His success in Raleigh eventually led to a 17-year NFL career, primarily with the Los Angeles Chargers and later the Indianapolis Colts.

Now, more than two decades after Philip first took snaps for the Wolfpack, his son will look to write his own chapter in Carter-Finley Stadium.

Gunnar’s Game

Gunnar has grown up around football at the highest levels, and that experience shows on tape. The high school quarterback has been praised for:

Strong mechanics and footwork
High football IQ and quick processing
Leadership presence in the huddle
Accuracy on intermediate throws

While comparisons to his father are inevitable, coaches say Gunnar brings his own style — blending traditional pocket poise with a slightly more modern ability to extend plays.

Why NC State?

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) drops back to pass Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, during practice at the Colts training facility in Indianapolis.

According to sources close to the recruitment, familiarity with the program and belief in its quarterback development played major roles in the decision. The coaching staff’s vision for Gunnar’s long-term growth reportedly stood out throughout the recruiting process.

For NC State, the commitment is about more than sentiment. It’s about adding a quarterback prospect with pedigree, preparation, and upside.

The Legacy Continues

With his commitment official, Gunnar now turns his attention to finishing his high school career strong before enrolling in Raleigh. The expectations will be high, but so is the excitement.

For Philip Rivers, it’s a powerful, full-circle moment — watching his son begin the same journey that launched his own football career. The Rivers name is returning to NC State. And a new era in Raleigh is about to begin.