Atlanta – As Eric Rivers prepares for his senior season, he reflects on his exceptional journey from a walk-on to becoming one of the top receivers in college football. After a successful stint at Florida International University (FIU), where he recorded 62 catches for 1,176 yards and 12 touchdowns, Rivers is now at Georgia Tech, aiming to continue his impressive rise in the sport.
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 175 pounds, Rivers’s athletic prowess is undeniable. His speed and agility allowed him to average 18.9 yards per catch last season, showcasing his ability to not only catch passes but also make significant yardage after receiving the ball. This talent earned him a 92 overall rating on the newly released EA Sports College Football ’26 video game, making him one of the highly rated players in the country.
Last season, Rivers turned heads with his performance at FIU, breaking several records and becoming the first AP All-American in the school’s history. His standout game was a 295-yard performance against New Mexico State, a game where he also scored three touchdowns. He finished his time with FIU with a streak of six consecutive games scoring at least one touchdown and achieving at least 91 receiving yards in eight games.
After considering over 43 Division I programs this offseason, Rivers chose Georgia Tech, where he hopes to solidify his role as the top receiver alongside talented teammates like dual-threat quarterback Haynes King. Rivers feels a strong connection to his new team, sharing an underdog mentality that resonates with his own story. “Nobody believes in us, so we have to believe in ourselves,” he said.
Having played at McCallie School, where he was a three-sport athlete, Rivers attributes much of his work ethic to the discipline learned there. “Going to McCallie instilled that work hard mentality,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of persistence through life’s challenges. This summer, he has focused on improving his route running and building chemistry with his teammates, especially King, with whom he has established a close friendship.
Rivers’ family is thrilled to see him closer to home in Atlanta. His mother, LaShandra Rivers, noted, “He is like a perfectionist. We are just thankful and grateful he is pursuing what he loves.” With a 2-year-old son cheering him on, Rivers is motivated to make his final season his best yet. “The number one reason why I keep going is for my son. I always want to be somebody he can look up to,” he said.
As he enters the season, Rivers is poised not just to prove himself on the field but to inspire others. With his eyes on the prize, he is determined to make a name for himself in college football while carrying the support of his loved ones.
