One of the biggest recruiting stories in college football has arrived early for the Class of 2027. Four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers has officially committed to NC State, choosing the Wolfpack and continuing a family legacy built by his father, former NFL star and NC State legend Philip Rivers.
The decision brings Gunner back to the same program where his father became the school’s all-time passing leader and one of the greatest quarterbacks in program history.
For NC State, this is more than just a commitment — it’s a major recruiting victory that could shape the future of the program.
Gunner Rivers Player Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Quarterback |
| Height | 6’3 – 6’4 |
| Weight | 200–205 lbs |
| High School | St. Michael Catholic (Fairhope, Alabama) |
| Class | 2027 |
| Star Rating | Four-star recruit |
| National Ranking | Around Top 125 overall |
| QB Ranking | Top 6–12 nationally |
| State Ranking | Top prospect in Alabama |
Gunner has received multiple scholarship offers from top programs including Auburn, Miami, South Carolina, Boston College, Georgia and others before committing to NC State.
High School Career: Big Numbers and Consistency
Gunner Rivers has already built one of the most productive high school careers among quarterbacks in his class.
Career Passing Totals (First Three Seasons)
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 10,000+ |
| Passing Touchdowns | 111 |
| Completion Rate | Around 65–73% |
Junior Season Performance
| Stat | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Completions | 237 of 343 (69.1%) |
| Passing Yards | 3,176 |
| Touchdowns | 46 |
| Interceptions | 5 |
He also led St. Michael Catholic to a 13–1 record and deep playoff runs, including state semifinal and championship appearances.
Playing Style and Strengths
Gunner Rivers is known as a smart pocket passer with advanced game awareness for his age. His strengths include:
- Excellent touch and timing on deep throws
- Ability to read defenses early
- Strong decision-making and low interception rate
- Good mobility to extend plays
- Large frame and strong arm control
Scouts believe he projects as a future Power Four starter with long-term upside.
Interestingly, his throwing motion has been compared to his father’s unique release, but he shows slightly better mobility.
Following Philip Rivers’ Footsteps
The commitment carries strong emotional and historical value.
Philip Rivers at NC State
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| College Career | 2000–2003 |
| Passing Yards | 13,484 (school record) |
| ACC Player of the Year | 2003 |
| Honors | Jersey retired, Ring of Honor |
| NFL Career | 17 seasons, 4 Pro Bowls |
Now, more than two decades later, his son will attempt to build his own legacy at the same school.
What This Means for NC State
Landing Gunner Rivers is one of the biggest recruiting wins in program history.
Impact on the 2027 Class
- One of the highest-ranked early commits
- Fourth commitment for the cycle
- Gives strong momentum to head coach Dave Doeren
- Raises the national profile of the recruiting class
NC State finished 8–5 last season and won its bowl game, and this commitment signals the program’s long-term ambition to compete at a higher level in the ACC.
Recruitment Momentum and Expectations
Because of his family name and national ranking, expectations will be high for Gunner when he arrives on campus.
Key storylines to watch:
- Development during his senior high school season
- Leadership growth as a multi-year starter
- Potential to become the face of the 2027 recruiting class
- Long-term role as the program’s future quarterback
Despite the attention, coaches and analysts believe his production and football IQ show he is more than just a legacy recruit.
Career Numbers Overview
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Total Passing Yards | 10,000+ |
| Career TD Passes | 111 |
| Best Season TDs | 46 |
| Completion Percentage | ~65–73% |
| Team Record (Junior Year) | 13–1 |
Gunner Rivers still has another high school season to play, and his final prep year will be closely watched by college football fans and recruiters nationwide.
If his development continues at the current pace, he could enter NC State as one of the most polished quarterbacks in the 2027 class.
Read more: Most Turnovers in an NFL Game
For the Wolfpack, the message is clear — the future at quarterback is being built early, and the Rivers legacy is ready for its next chapter.
With elite production, strong football pedigree, and national recognition, Gunner Rivers is already one of the most talked-about young quarterbacks in the country. Now committed to NC State, he carries both the pressure and the opportunity to turn a famous legacy into his own success story.
FAQs
1. Who is Gunner Rivers?
Gunner Rivers is a four-star quarterback from Alabama and the son of former NFL and NC State legend Philip Rivers.
2. Which college did Gunner Rivers commit to?
He committed to NC State for the Class of 2027.
3. How highly ranked is Gunner Rivers?
He is a top-125 national prospect and ranked among the top quarterbacks in his class.
4. What are his high school stats?
He has thrown for over 10,000 yards and 111 touchdowns in his first three seasons.
5. Why is his commitment important for NC State?
It strengthens the program’s future quarterback position and gives major momentum to the 2027 recruiting class.
