Early Life and Education of Philip Rivers: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Philip Rivers. A timeline of key moments.

Philip Rivers is a former NFL quarterback who played for 17 seasons, primarily with the Chargers. Drafted in 2004, he spent 16 seasons with the Chargers after being traded from the Giants and finished his career with the Indianapolis Colts. Rivers played college football at NC State and is known for his longevity and competitiveness in the NFL. Since retiring from professional football, he has become a high school football coach in Alabama.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

December 8, 1981: Philip Rivers' Birth

On December 8, 1981, Philip Michael Rivers was born. He would later become a professional football quarterback.

Others born on this day/year

1994: First Official Game

In 1994, Philip Rivers started in an official game for the first time in the seventh grade.

December 1999: Early High School Graduation

In December 1999, Philip Rivers graduated from high school early to enroll at North Carolina State.

2000: Freshman Year at NC State

In 2000, during his freshman year, Philip Rivers led NC State to an 8-4 record, including a win in the MicronPC Bowl. He also broke several school passing records and earned ACC Freshman of the Year honors.

2000: First College Practice

In the spring of 2000, Philip Rivers participated in his first practice as a college quarterback at North Carolina State University.

2001: Sophomore Season

In 2001, Philip Rivers' sophomore year, he passed for 2,586 yards and 16 touchdowns, leading the ACC with a 65.2 percent completion rate.

2002: Best Start in School History

In 2002, Philip Rivers led the Wolfpack to victories in their first nine games, marking the best start in the school's history.

2003: Gator Bowl Win

In 2003, Philip Rivers delivered an MVP performance, leading the Wolfpack to a dominating 28-6 win over Notre Dame in the Gator Bowl.

2003: Tangerine Bowl Victory

In 2003, Philip Rivers led NC State to a 56-26 win over Kansas in the Tangerine Bowl, earning his second straight bowl MVP award. He was also named ACC Player of the Year and ACC Athlete of the Year.

2003: Record-Breaking Season

In 2003, Philip Rivers led the ACC in passing attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns, leading to NC State qualifying for a bowl game.

2010: Rivers misses Pro Bowl due to birth of child

In 2010, Philip Rivers missed the Pro Bowl due to the birth of his child.

May 17, 2014: Honorary Degree

On May 17, 2014, Philip Rivers received an honorary degree, doctor of humane letters, and addressed the class of 2014 at the 125th annual commencement ceremony of the Catholic University of America (CUA).

August 26, 2021: First Win as Head Coach

On August 26, 2021, Philip Rivers secured his first victory as a high school football head coach, leading the St. Michael Catholic Cardinals to a 49–0 win.