NC State Lands Elite QB Gunner Rivers, Son of NFL Legend Philip Rivers

NC State Wolfpack soccer has secured a significant dedication from four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers, the son of former NFL star Philip Rivers. Ranked No. 42 total within the 2027 recruiting class, Rivers stands among the many high 20 highest-rated commits in program historical past, giving NC State a cornerstone prospect for its future offense.

This is a major recruiting victory for head coach Dave Doeren and reinforces the Wolfpack’s rising nationwide presence on the recruiting path.

Family Legacy and Early NC State Connection

Rivers, a standout at Fairhope (Ala.) St. Michael Catholic High School has longstanding ties to NC State. According to CBS Sports, he visited Raleigh final season in the course of the Wolfpack’s 42-19 victory over rival North Carolina Tar Heels soccer, additional strengthening the connection between this system and the Rivers household.

Despite scholarship provides from Auburn, Boston College, Miami, and South Carolina, household legacy and belief in Doeren’s management performed a decisive position. Philip Rivers starred at NC State from 2000 to 2003, and that historical past clearly influenced his son’s choice practically a yr earlier than National Signing Day.

Elite High School Production and Rising National Profile

Playing beneath his father at St. Michael, Rivers grew to become the beginning quarterback as a freshman and has steadily elevated his efficiency. In 2025, he accomplished 237 of 343 passes for 3,176 yards and 46 touchdowns, throwing simply 5 interceptions. He added 196 speeding yards and led his group to a 13-1 file and a state semifinal look, incomes ASWA Super All-State honors.

Scouting analysts reward his polished mechanics, fast launch, and superior subject imaginative and prescient. Currently ranked the No. 6 quarterback nationally within the 2027 class, Rivers has reputable five-star upside as he continues to develop.

Future Impact in Raleigh

Although Rivers is not going to enroll till 2027, he might compete for early enjoying time relying on roster dynamics, per 247 Sports. With incumbent quarterback CJ Bailey holding eligibility, potential NFL motion might speed up Rivers’ path to the sector.

For NC State, touchdown Gunner Rivers means that the group is in good arms. This merely implies that they’re going after long-term stability at quarterback this season.