Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
In response to quarterback injuries, the Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran Philip Rivers to their practice squad. With starting QB Daniel Jones out for the season and backup Riley Leonard also sidelined, Rivers’ return aims to bring leadership and experience as the Colts compete for a playoff spot. Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowler, played for the Colts in 2020 and will help stabilize the team as they face critical matchups in the AFC South.
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have made a notable strategic move in response to their ongoing quarterback challenges by signing 44-year-old veteran Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision comes in light of a significant shortage at the quarterback position, largely due to the season-ending injury of starting quarterback Daniel Jones, who suffered an Achilles tear, alongside backup Riley Leonard, who is contending with a knee issue. Rivers, who stepped away from professional football after the 2020 season, is anticipated to lend his experience and leadership as the Colts aim to navigate through the critical final stretch of the season.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
The Colts find themselves in a difficult position following the injury to Jones during a recent match against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Leonard, who took over for Jones, is also not available due to his knee injury, leaving the team in need of immediate reinforcement at the quarterback position. Rookie Anthony Richardson is currently on injured reserve due to a facial injury, further complicating the Colts’ efforts. Rivers, who has been coaching at the high school level in Alabama since his retirement, possesses a deep familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach during their time together with the Los Angeles Chargers. This relationship is expected to facilitate a smooth re-entry as the Colts endeavor to stabilize their offense and promote a playoff push.
Rivers’ NFL Career and Recent Developments
Philip Rivers boasts an impressive career as an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. He dedicated 16 seasons to the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before concluding his career with the Colts in 2020, where he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. His experience within the league and immediate connection to the organization provide a pivotal advantage as the Colts look to overcome their current three-game losing streak and strengthen their position in the AFC South division.
Colts’ Playoff Hopes Amidst Quarterback Challenges
Currently standing at 8-5, the Colts are grappling with playoff aspirations and are tied for second place in the competitive AFC South division, just one game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars. With critical matchups looming against several strong teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Jaguars, and Houston Texans, Rivers’ addition is seen as an essential measure to not only enhance depth at the quarterback position but also to inject experience that could better equip the team to tackle their upcoming challenges. The hope is that Rivers can help guide the Colts through this pivotal juncture and keep their playoff dreams alive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indianapolis Colts sign Philip Rivers to their practice squad?
The Colts signed Rivers to address a critical shortage at the quarterback position due to recent injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. Rivers’ veteran experience is expected to provide depth and leadership as the team aims to stabilize its offense during the final stretch of the season.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Rivers is an eight-time Pro Bowl selection who ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. He spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Colts for his final season in 2020, leading them to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance.
How does Rivers’ signing impact the Colts’ playoff prospects?
With a current record of 8-5, the Colts are tied for second place in the AFC South division, one game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars. The addition of Rivers is viewed as a necessary step to provide depth and experience at the quarterback position, as the Colts aim to navigate a challenging schedule and keep their playoff aspirations alive.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Philip Rivers |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Age | 44 |
| Previous Teams | San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, Indianapolis Colts |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 8 |
| Team Record | 8-5 |
| AFC South Standing | Tied for Second Place |
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Colts Sign Veteran QB Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Secure Veteran QB Philip Rivers Amidst Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Add Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Shortage
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers Amid Injury Crisis
Indianapolis Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
