Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts are considering re-signing veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, 44, as injuries plague their roster. With starting QB Daniel Jones out for the season and backup Riley Leonard also injured, the team is evaluating Rivers to navigate their quarterback crisis. Rivers, who has an impressive NFL record, could provide the needed leadership for the struggling team.
Colts Eye Philip Rivers’ Comeback Amid Quarterback Crisis
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts are weighing the option of re-signing 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers after severe injuries have decimated their quarterback roster. Rivers, who hung up his cleats following the 2020 season, is set to work out with the team this Tuesday, providing a chance to evaluate his capability for a comeback.
Injury Challenges for the Colts
The Colts find themselves in the midst of a quarterback crisis, as starting quarterback Daniel Jones faces a season-ending torn Achilles tendon. Backup Riley Leonard, who stepped in following Jones’ injury, is also not fully fit due to a knee issue, raising concerns about his availability for the next matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Compounding the situation, rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson is recovering from a broken orbital bone, while veteran Brett Rypien is currently positioned on the practice squad.
Philip Rivers’ Potential Return
Rivers boasts an impressive resume as an eight-time Pro Bowl selection who led the Colts to an 11-5 season and a playoff appearance in 2020. He ranks seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes. If Rivers joins the Colts’ active roster, it would reset his Hall of Fame eligibility timeline by requiring an additional five years before he could be considered. Conversely, joining the practice squad would leave his eligibility intact, allowing him to coach and mentor while still remaining a candidate for the Hall of Fame.
Background on Philip Rivers
A seasoned quarterback, Rivers spent 16 prolific seasons with the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers before concluding his career with the Indianapolis Colts. Post-retirement, he has taken on coaching responsibilities at St. Michael High School in Fairhope, Alabama, further solidifying his commitment to mentoring young football talent. Notably, Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen previously worked with Rivers as his quarterbacks coach from 2016 to 2019, fostering a strong relationship that could facilitate a smooth transition should Rivers return to the field.
Next Steps for the Colts
As the team prepares for its upcoming games, evaluating Rivers’ performance during the scheduled workout will be crucial. The Colts remain optimistic that Rivers can provide the leadership and experience necessary to navigate through this challenging period. Meanwhile, they are also contemplating promoting Brett Rypien from the practice squad as a viable alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are the Indianapolis Colts considering re-signing Philip Rivers?
The Colts are facing a quarterback crisis due to injuries to their current quarterbacks, including Daniel Jones’ season-ending Achilles tear and Riley Leonard’s knee injury. They are evaluating the possibility of bringing back Philip Rivers to provide experienced leadership for the remainder of the season.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Philip Rivers is an eight-time Pro Bowl quarterback who spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He ranks seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes.
How does re-signing Rivers affect his Hall of Fame eligibility?
If Rivers is signed to the active roster, his Hall of Fame eligibility clock would reset, requiring an additional five-year wait. However, joining the practice squad would not affect his eligibility.
What is the current status of the Colts’ quarterback situation?
The Colts are dealing with significant injuries to their quarterbacks, including Daniel Jones’ season-ending Achilles tear and Riley Leonard’s knee injury. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a broken orbital bone, and veteran Brett Rypien is on the practice squad. The team is exploring options, including the potential re-signing of Philip Rivers.
Key Features of the Indianapolis Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injured Quarterbacks | Daniel Jones (season-ending Achilles tear), Riley Leonard (knee injury), Anthony Richardson (broken orbital bone), Brett Rypien (practice squad) |
| Potential Addition | Philip Rivers (44-year-old former quarterback) scheduled for workout on Tuesday |
| Rivers’ NFL Background | Eight-time Pro Bowl selection, 16 seasons with Chargers, one season with Colts in 2020 |
| Hall of Fame Eligibility | Active roster signing would reset eligibility clock; practice squad signing would not affect eligibility |
| Coaching Background | Rivers coached high school football at St. Michael High School in Fairhope, Alabama; previously worked with Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
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