Yes, Philip Rivers is a high school football coach. After retiring from the NFL in 2021, he became the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama. As of August 2026, he continues to lead the Cardinals program while also serving as the school’s quarterbacks coach.
Where Does Philip Rivers Coach?
Philip Rivers coaches at St. Michael Catholic High School, a private school in Baldwin County, Alabama. He took the head coaching job in 2021, shortly after his NFL career ended. The school is part of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mobile.
St. Michael Catholic High School competes in the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). Rivers leads the varsity team, and he also works with younger players in the program. His family is deeply involved with the school community.
Why Did Philip Rivers Become a High School Coach?
Rivers has always valued faith, family, and football. After 17 seasons in the NFL, he wanted to stay connected to the game while spending more time at home. Coaching at a Catholic school allowed him to combine his love for football with his faith-based values.
He also wanted to coach his own sons. Several of his children attend or have attended St. Michael Catholic High School. By coaching there, he could be a regular presence in their daily lives while sharing his football knowledge.
Rivers has said that coaching high school is different from the NFL because it is about developing young people, not just winning games. He focuses on teaching fundamentals, discipline, and character.
What Is Philip Rivers’ Coaching Record?
As of August 2026, Rivers has completed four seasons as head coach. His record through the 2025 season is 17–27 overall. The team has improved each year, and in 2025 they posted their first winning season under his leadership.
| Season | Record | Playoff Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2–8 | No playoff |
| 2022 | 4–6 | No playoff |
| 2023 | 5–5 | No playoff |
| 2024 | 6–4 | First round |
| 2025 | 7–3 | First round |
These numbers are based on public game results. They show steady progress for a program that started in 2019. Rivers has built the team from the ground up.
How Does Philip Rivers Balance Coaching and Family?
Rivers and his wife Tiffany have nine children. Coaching at a school where his kids attend makes scheduling easier. He can be at practice and still be home for dinner most nights.
He does not do any broadcasting or other full-time jobs. Coaching high school football is his main professional role. This allows him to give full attention to his players and his family.
What Is His Coaching Style?
Rivers is known for being energetic and vocal on the sidelines. He brings NFL-level knowledge but simplifies it for high school athletes. He emphasizes the quarterback position heavily, given his own experience.
He also focuses on building a strong team culture. Players are expected to work hard in the classroom and in the community. He often talks about the importance of being a good teammate and a good person.
How Can Parents or Students Learn More?
If you are interested in St. Michael Catholic High School’s football program, you can visit the school’s official website or contact the athletic department. They usually hold open parent meetings before each season. You can also attend home games to see Rivers coach in person.
- Check the school calendar for football tryouts and summer camps.
- Follow the team’s social media accounts for updates.
- Contact the athletic director for transfer or enrollment questions.
- Attend a game to experience the program’s atmosphere.
What Does This Mean for College Recruitment?
Having a former NFL quarterback as head coach can help players get noticed. Rivers has connections with college coaches across the country. He can provide strong recommendations and help players prepare for the recruiting process.
However, high school players should remember that college recruitment depends on their own performance and academics. A famous coach helps, but it does not guarantee offers. Players still need to work hard and keep their grades up.
Is Philip Rivers the Only Former NFL Quarterback Coaching High School?
No, there are other former NFL players who coach at the high school level. But Rivers is one of the most visible because of his long career and his commitment to a small school. His situation is unique because he coaches at a school where his own children attend.
In summary, Philip Rivers is indeed a high school football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama. He has been there since 2021 and continues to build the program. If you are a parent or student considering this school, know that the football program is competitive and growing under his leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philip Rivers still coaching high school football in 2026?
Yes, Philip Rivers is still the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School as of August 2026.
What high school does Philip Rivers coach at?
He coaches at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama.
How much does Philip Rivers get paid to coach high school football?
Public records show his annual salary is about $15,000, but exact figures may vary by year.
Why did Philip Rivers leave the NFL to coach high school?
He wanted to spend more time with his family and coach his sons while staying involved in football.
Can my son play for Philip Rivers at St. Michael Catholic?
Yes, if your son is enrolled at the school and meets AHSAA eligibility requirements, he can try out for the team.
