Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, addressing crucial quarterback shortages due to injuries. Starting QB Daniel Jones is sidelined with a season-ending Achilles tear, while backup Riley Leonard is uncertain with a knee injury. Rivers, who retired in 2020 after a successful career, returns to add experience to the Colts as they face a challenging final stretch of the season with hopes of rebounding from a three-game losing streak.
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB 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 comes after starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear and backup Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury during the team’s 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.
Addressing the Quarterback Shortage
Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, returns to the NFL to provide depth and experience to the Colts’ quarterback lineup. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, with whom he worked during their time with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s offensive system.
Current Status of the Colts’ Quarterbacks
With Jones out for the remainder of the season and Leonard’s availability uncertain due to his knee injury, the Colts’ quarterback depth is severely compromised. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. The addition of Rivers aims to stabilize the position as the team approaches the final stretch of the season.
Understanding Rivers’ Impact
Philip Rivers concluded his 17-year NFL career with the Colts in 2020, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance—the last postseason for Indianapolis. Over his career, he amassed over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both categories. Since retiring, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Alabama.
Future Prospects for the Colts
The Colts, currently 8-5, are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak. With four games remaining, including a challenging matchup against the 10-3 Seattle Seahawks, the team is hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will contribute to a successful conclusion to the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indianapolis Colts sign Philip Rivers to their practice squad?
The Colts signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad to address a critical shortage at the quarterback position due to recent injuries. Starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury during the team’s 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.
What is Philip Rivers’ background in the NFL?
Philip Rivers concluded his 17-year NFL career with the Colts in 2020, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance—the last postseason for Indianapolis. Over his career, he amassed over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both categories. Since retiring, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Alabama.
How does Philip Rivers’ signing affect the Colts’ quarterback situation?
With starting quarterback Daniel Jones out for the remainder of the season and backup Riley Leonard’s availability uncertain due to his knee injury, the Colts’ quarterback depth is severely compromised. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. The addition of Rivers aims to stabilize the position as the team approaches the final stretch of the season.
What are the Colts’ prospects for the remainder of the season?
The Colts, currently 8-5, are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak. With four games remaining, including a challenging matchup against the 10-3 Seattle Seahawks, the team is hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will contribute to a successful conclusion to the season.
Key Features of the Colts’ Recent Quarterback Developments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury to Daniel Jones | Season-ending Achilles tear during the December 7, 2025, game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. |
| Riley Leonard’s Injury | Knee injury sustained during the same game; availability for upcoming games uncertain. |
| Signing of Philip Rivers | Rivers signed to the practice squad on December 9, 2025, to bolster the quarterback position. |
| Anthony Richardson’s Status | Rookie quarterback on injured reserve with a facial injury; not expected to return this week. |
| Upcoming Schedule | Colts to face the 10-3 Seattle Seahawks in Week 15, with Rivers potentially available as a backup. |
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