Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
In a surprising move, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, amid a series of injuries to their quarterback lineup. Starting QB Daniel Jones is out for the season, backup Riley Leonard is sidelined, and rookie Anthony Richardson is unavailable due to an orbital fracture. Rivers, who last played in 2020, brings extensive experience and familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, potentially providing crucial guidance to the team during a challenging season.
Indianapolis, Indiana – In a surprising move, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, providing a vital solution to their current quarterback dilemma following a spate of injuries. The starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, is out for the season due to an Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard has also been sidelined with a knee injury from a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. With rookie Anthony Richardson unavailable due to an orbital fracture, the Colts found themselves in urgent need of more quarterback depth.
Rivers, who stepped away from the NFL after the 2020 season, had been coaching high school football in Alabama before his return. His signing is a welcomed development for the Colts, who are in search of stability and performance amidst a tough season marked by a three-game losing streak. The team is optimistic that Rivers’ extensive experience and leadership could play a pivotal role in their efforts to position themselves for a playoff berth.
Challenges and Injuries in the Colts’ Quarterback Room
The Colts’ quarterback situation highlights the increasing challenges faced by professional teams in navigating injuries. Daniel Jones’ season-ending injury and Riley Leonard’s knee setback have led to a depletion of options at the most critical position on the field. Additionally, Anthony Richardson’s orbital fracture has left the team with limited on-field availability, making Rivers’ experience invaluable as they seek to regain their footing in the playoff race.
Philip Rivers: A New Chapter
Having retired after the 2020 NFL season, Philip Rivers is no stranger to the Colts, where he had a commendable final year, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. His performance included over 4,000 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. The familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, who previously served as Rivers’ quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, is anticipated to facilitate a smoother transition for him back into professional play.
The Potential Impact on the Colts
Rivers’ addition to the Colts’ practice squad is not just about filling a roster spot; it may also provide veteran insight and strategy that could be essential for a team looking to reset their momentum. While rookie Riley Leonard is expected to start in the upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks, having Rivers as an option on the practice squad introduces a layer of depth that could prove critical in high-stakes situations.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Games
As the Colts prepare for their Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, the dynamic between Rivers and the current roster will be closely observed. Although Rivers is not slated to start, his experience could benefit Leonard and the younger players on the team, potentially shaping their development and performance during the remainder of the season.
Conclusion
The Indianapolis Colts are taking proactive steps to secure their playoff ambitions by signing Philip Rivers, a seasoned quarterback who is stepping back into the game after a brief hiatus. This strategic move comes at a crucial time, as the Colts look to overcome recent adversities and aim for a stronger finish to the season. Supporting local initiatives such as these—where experienced players contribute to both on- and off-field development—can foster a more resilient Indianapolis economy and a vibrant sports culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indianapolis Colts sign Philip Rivers?
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 to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ background?
Philip Rivers retired after the 2020 season and has been coaching high school football in Alabama. In his final season with the Colts in 2020, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns.
How does Rivers’ signing impact the Colts’ quarterback situation?
Rivers’ signing provides the Colts with additional depth and experience at the quarterback position, which is crucial given the injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s system.
When is the Colts’ next game?
The Colts are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15. Rookie Riley Leonard is expected to start, but Rivers’ presence on the practice squad offers the team additional options at quarterback.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Starting QB Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear; backup QB Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury; rookie QB Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with an orbital fracture. |
| Rivers’ Background | Retired after the 2020 season; coached high school football in Alabama; led Colts to an 11-5 record and playoff appearance in 2020. |
| Coaching Familiarity | Rivers has a history with head coach Shane Steichen from their time with the Los Angeles Chargers, which may aid in his integration into the Colts’ system. |
| Upcoming Game | Colts are scheduled to play the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15; rookie Riley Leonard is expected to start, with Rivers available on the practice squad. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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.
