Philip Rivers

Philip Rivers began his NFL career as the 4th overall pick in the 2004 draft by the New York Giants, before being traded to the San Diego Chargers. During his tenure with the Chargers, he became a distinguished player, leading the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2008 and in passing yards in 2010. In 2013, Rivers received the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and was noted for having the highest number of touchdowns, completion percentage, TD–INT ratio, passer rating, and Pro Bowl honors among his draft peers, which included Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger. His jersey number was retired by NC State before his final home game, marking his impressive record in college football.

After a long tenure with the Chargers, Rivers became a free agent in 2020 and signed a one-year, $25 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts. He retired from the NFL on January 20, 2021, after seventeen seasons. He rejoined the team in 2025, coming out of retirement to join the Colts' practice team.

Post-retirement, Rivers transitioned into a role as a high school football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, winning his first game as a coach in August 2021. He also made significant contributions off the field, being a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2011 for his work with the Rivers of Hope Foundation, and receiving an honorary degree, doctor of humane letters, from the Catholic University of America in 2014.