Russell Wilson takes first step towards NC State coaching job after CBS move

Photo by Ian Maule/Getty ImagesRussell Wilson has interviewed for the vacant NC State head coaching job, just months after retiring from the NFL and joining CBS Sports as an analyst.The former Seattle Seahawks quarterback is now one of two high-profile candidates linked with the role, alongside Philip Rivers, who also played college football for the Wolfpack.NC State dismissed Dave Doeren after the team fell to a 3-4 record. Todd Goebbel has taken charge as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.Russell Wilson emerges as candidate for NC State head coaching jobESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that Wilson interviewed for the position, having previously spent three seasons with NC State between 2008 and 2010.Wilson left the programme after graduating in three years and pursuing baseball, with his commitment to football questioned by then-head coach Tom O’Brien.Speaking to HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, Wilson recalled: “Kinda kicked me out of NC State a little bit.”Despite that difficult departure, the 37-year-old has maintained a strong connection with the university. He previously said: “I love NC State,” and the school honoured his jersey at a spring game.Wilson remains one of the most successful quarterbacks in the programme’s history. His 8,545 passing yards rank third in NC State history, while his 76 touchdown passes are the second-most.However, he would be taking on a very different challenge if appointed, having never coached at any level.Wilson spent 14 seasons in the NFL, throwing for 46,966 yards and 353 touchdowns. He led the Seahawks to their first Super Bowl victory with a 43-8 win over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII and earned 10 Pro Bowl selections.He retired earlier this year before joining CBS Sports as an analyst on The NFL Today. His new role has given him a route to remain involved in football without playing.Rivers is also being considered, although reports suggest he remains in serious discussions rather than being close to an agreement. The former NFL quarterback has coaching experience at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama.Wilson’s lack of coaching experience could be a major factor in NC State’s decision. Athletic director Boo Corrigan is overseeing the search, with former Steelers coach Bill Cowher reportedly assisting.A potential appointment would also set up an intriguing future rivalry with Bill Belichick, who now coaches North Carolina. However, any Wilson-Belichick meeting on opposing sidelines would come in 2027 at the earliest.Read more:Mike Tomlin’s coaching future takes fresh ‘not coming back’ twist after revealing love for NBC roleWild Derrick Henry stat shows how desperate Baltimore Ravens’ QB situation is‘Worst search of all time’ – Fans have their say after Russell Wilson interviews to be a CFB head coach