Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad due to significant injuries in their quarterback lineup. With starting quarterback Daniel Jones out for the season and backup Riley Leonard injured, Rivers’ return provides a seasoned option to help the team through the next crucial games. His coaching familiarity with Shane Steichen is expected to aid his integration into the team’s offensive system as the Colts pursue a playoff spot.
Colts Sign Veteran Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback 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 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.
Immediate Impact of the Signing
Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, returns to the Colts’ organization where he led the team to the playoffs in his final NFL season. 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 offensive system.
Current Quarterback Situation
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 an orbital fracture, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. Rivers’ addition provides the team with a seasoned option to navigate the challenges of the remaining four games.
Background on Philip Rivers
Rivers concluded his 17-year NFL career with the Colts in 2020, achieving an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. 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.
Looking Ahead
The Colts, currently 8-5, are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak and remain in contention for a playoff spot. Rivers’ experience and leadership are seen as vital assets as the team prepares for a challenging final stretch of the season.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Starting QB Daniel Jones out for season with Achilles tear; backup QB Riley Leonard dealing with knee injury; rookie QB Anthony Richardson on injured reserve with orbital fracture. |
| Veteran Addition | Philip Rivers, 44, signed to practice squad; last played in 2020; led Colts to playoffs that season. |
| Coaching Familiarity | Rivers has prior relationship with head coach Shane Steichen from their time with the Los Angeles Chargers. |
| Season Outlook | Colts aim to rebound from three-game losing streak; currently 8-5; playoff hopes intact with four games remaining. |
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 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, achieving an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. 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 Daniel Jones out for the remainder of the season and 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 an orbital fracture, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. Rivers’ addition provides the team with a seasoned option to navigate the challenges of the remaining four games.
What is the significance of Philip Rivers’ relationship with head coach Shane Steichen?
Rivers’ 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 Colts’ offensive system. This prior relationship may help Rivers quickly adapt to the team’s playbook and dynamics.
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 and remain in contention for a playoff spot. Rivers’ experience and leadership are seen as vital assets as the team prepares for a challenging final stretch of the season.
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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.
