Former Super Bowl champion and North Carolina State University quarterback Russell Wilson interviewed on Tuesday for the position of head coach at his alma mater. According to sources speaking with ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, the meeting marks a significant development in the ongoing search to lead the Wolfpack football program.
This move introduces an unexpected element to a hiring process that had previously appeared centered on another notable former Wolfpack signal-caller, Phillip Rivers. Wilson, who is currently 38 years old, now stands alongside Rivers as a leading candidate for the role. The university initiated the search after dismissing long-time head coach Dave Doeren on October 24.
Wilson attended NC State from 2008 to 2010. His professional career began when he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Over the course of a 14-season career, he established himself as a premier quarterback, guiding Seattle to their first Super Bowl title during the 2013 season.
Recognized as a 10-time Pro Bowl selection, Wilson announced his retirement from the NFL in June. Since leaving the league, he has worked as a sports analyst for CBS Sports. Bill Cowher, another former Wolfpack legend who also serves as an analyst for CBS, is assisting with the current coaching search and works alongside Wilson.
The other primary candidate, Phillip Rivers, played at NC State from 2000 to 2003. He is currently in his sixth season serving as the head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama. Under Rivers' guidance, the Cardinals advanced to the state playoff semifinals in each of the last two seasons. Additionally, Rivers is currently coaching his son, Gunner, a top quarterback who has committed to play for NC State.
Rivers, who is 44 years old, shares the distinction with Wilson of never having held a college coaching position. Sources indicate that Rivers has informed NC State of his desire to complete the current high school season before potentially taking on the university role.
The Wolfpack currently hold a 4-4 record. They secured a 31-10 victory against Cal on October 31, which was their first game played under interim head coach Todd Goebbel. The team is scheduled to host Duke on Saturday. Duke enters the matchup with a 6-2 record.
The reporting for this story was contributed by ABC11's Travon Miles and ESPN.
