Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad following injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard. Rivers, a veteran with 17 years of NFL experience, is expected to bring stability to the quarterback position as the team pursues playoff aspirations. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen may aid in his integration. The Colts are looking to strengthen their roster ahead of their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
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.
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, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. 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 team’s system.
Quarterback Situation and Team Outlook
With Jones and Leonard sidelined, the Colts’ quarterback depth is severely compromised. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve due to a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. Rivers’ addition aims to stabilize the position as the team approaches a challenging final stretch of the season, starting with a game against the Seattle Seahawks on December 14, 2025.
Background on Philip Rivers
Rivers, a 17-year NFL veteran, ranks among the league’s all-time leaders with 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes. After retiring in 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama. His return to the NFL at age 44 underscores the Colts’ urgency to address their quarterback crisis.
Looking Ahead
The Colts, currently 8-5, are striving to maintain their playoff aspirations despite the quarterback injuries. Rivers’ experience and leadership are seen as vital assets in navigating the remaining games of the season. The team is hopeful that his presence will provide the stability needed to overcome recent setbacks and remain competitive in the AFC South division.
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’ experience in the NFL?
Philip Rivers is a 17-year NFL veteran who ranks among the league’s all-time leaders with 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes. After retiring in 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama.
How does Rivers’ signing affect the Colts’ quarterback situation?
Rivers’ signing aims to stabilize the quarterback position for the Colts, who are currently 8-5. With Jones and Leonard sidelined, and rookie Anthony Richardson on injured reserve, Rivers’ experience and leadership are seen as vital assets in navigating the remaining games of the season.
What is the Colts’ upcoming schedule?
The Colts are set to face the Seattle Seahawks on December 14, 2025, marking the beginning of a challenging final stretch of the season. Rivers’ addition is expected to provide the stability needed to remain competitive in the AFC South division.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Starting QB Daniel Jones out for the season with an Achilles tear; backup QB Riley Leonard with a knee injury; rookie QB Anthony Richardson on injured reserve. |
| Rivers’ Experience | 17-year NFL veteran; ranks among all-time leaders with 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdowns; retired in 2021; coached high school football in Alabama. |
| Team Record | 8-5; aiming to maintain playoff aspirations despite quarterback injuries. |
| Upcoming Game | December 14, 2025, against the Seattle Seahawks; Rivers’ addition expected to provide stability. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Colts Re-sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Due to QB Injuries
Indianapolis Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Due to Injuries
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
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.
