December 9, 2025

Colts Welcome Philip Rivers to Practice Squad

here-intlog
December 9, 2025
10:16 pm
Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis, Indiana, December 9, 2025

In a surprising move, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad following significant injuries to their quarterback roster. Starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, while backup Riley Leonard is also sidelined with a knee injury. Rivers, who retired in 2020, brings a wealth of experience and familiarity with the team’s head coach, enhancing the Colts’ chances as they strive to overcome current challenges in their quest for a playoff spot.

Indianapolis Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries

Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, addressing a critical shortage at the quarterback position due to recent injuries. This move follows the season-ending Achilles injury of starting quarterback Daniel Jones and a knee injury to backup Riley Leonard during the team’s 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.

Immediate Impact of the Signing

Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, brings extensive experience to the Colts. In his final NFL season, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the Colts’ system.

Current Quarterback Situation

With Jones out for the season and Leonard’s availability uncertain due to his knee injury, the Colts’ quarterback depth is severely compromised. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. Rivers’ addition provides the team with a seasoned option as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Background on Philip Rivers

Rivers, a former first-round draft pick in 2004, spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Colts for his final NFL season in 2020. Over his illustrious career, he accumulated over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both categories. Since retiring, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Fairhope, Alabama.

Looking Ahead

The Colts (8-5) are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak and remain in contention for a playoff spot. Their next game is scheduled against the Seattle Seahawks (10-3) on December 14, 2025. The team hopes that Rivers’ experience and leadership will help stabilize the quarterback position and guide them through the challenging final stretch of the season.

Recent Game Results

Game	Date	Result
Colts at Jaguars	December 7, 2025	Colts 19 – Jaguars 36

FAQ

Why did the Colts sign Philip Rivers?

The Colts signed Philip Rivers to their practice squad to address a shortage at the quarterback position following season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.

What is Philip Rivers’ background?

Philip Rivers is a former NFL quarterback who played 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He retired after the 2020 season and has been coaching high school football in Fairhope, Alabama.

What is the current quarterback situation for the Colts?

With Daniel Jones out for the season due to an Achilles injury and Riley Leonard dealing with a knee injury, the Colts’ quarterback depth is compromised. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is on the practice squad.

When is the Colts’ next game?

The Colts’ next game is scheduled against the Seattle Seahawks on December 14, 2025.

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