Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad due to severe injuries affecting their current quarterbacks. With both starting QB Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard out for the season, along with rookie Anthony Richardson sidelined, Rivers’ experience and familiarity with the coaching staff may provide much-needed stability as the team vies for a playoff spot. His return comes after a brief retirement, during which he coached high school football in Alabama.
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Crisis
Injuries Force Team to Bring Back Veteran QB
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.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
The Colts’ quarterback situation has become dire following season-ending injuries to both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon during a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, while Leonard is dealing with a knee injury. With rookie Anthony Richardson also sidelined due to a facial injury, the team turned to Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, for assistance. Rivers’ familiarity with Colts 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.
Rivers’ NFL Career and Recent Activities
Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Colts for his final NFL season in 2020. In that year, he led the Colts to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. Since retiring, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Alabama. His return to the NFL comes at a time when the Colts are striving to stabilize their offense and remain competitive in the playoff race.
Implications for the Colts’ Playoff Hopes
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 to the practice squad is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s quarterback depth and enhance their chances of securing a playoff spot. The Colts are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in their next game, and Rivers’ experience and leadership could prove invaluable as the team navigates this challenging period.
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 season-ending injuries to both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Rivers is an eight-time Pro Bowl selection who spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Colts for his final NFL season in 2020, leading them to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance.
How might Rivers’ return impact the Colts’ playoff prospects?
Rivers’ experience and leadership are expected to bolster the Colts’ quarterback depth, enhancing their chances of securing a playoff spot as they navigate a challenging final stretch of the season.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Season-ending Achilles injury to Daniel Jones; knee injury to Riley Leonard; Anthony Richardson sidelined with a facial injury. |
| Rivers’ Role | Signed to the practice squad to provide quarterback depth and leadership. |
| Upcoming Game | Scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks, with Rivers potentially contributing to the team’s efforts. |
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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.
