Indianapolis, December 11, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad due to a critical shortage in their quarterback lineup, following season-ending injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, brings a wealth of experience and familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, which may help the team navigate a challenging period as they aspire for playoff contention.
Indianapolis, IN – Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, addressing a critical shortage in their quarterback lineup. This decision follows season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard during a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Immediate Impact of the Signing
Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, brings extensive experience to the team. In his final season with the Colts, 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 Colts head coach Shane Steichen, with whom he worked closely during their time with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the team’s offensive system.
Context of the Quarterback Situation
The Colts’ quarterback situation has become increasingly dire. Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the recent game against Jacksonville, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Backup Riley Leonard, who stepped in for Jones, is dealing with a knee injury, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming games. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve due to a facial injury sustained earlier in the season. With these challenges, Rivers’ return offers a potential solution to stabilize the team’s offense during a crucial stretch of the season.
Background on Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers had a distinguished 17-year NFL career, spending 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts. Over his career, he accumulated 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 and working with quarterbacks preparing for the NFL draft. His return to the Colts’ practice squad marks a significant development in the team’s efforts to address their quarterback challenges.
Looking Ahead
The Colts are hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will provide a stabilizing presence as they navigate the remainder of the season. The team is expected to evaluate Rivers’ readiness and potential role in upcoming games, aiming to leverage his expertise to enhance their playoff prospects.
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 in their quarterback lineup, following season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ experience with the Indianapolis Colts?
Philip Rivers played one season with the Colts in 2020, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns during that season.
How does Philip Rivers’ relationship with head coach Shane Steichen impact his return?
Rivers’ familiarity with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, with whom he worked closely during their time with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the team’s offensive system.
What is the current status of the Colts’ quarterback situation?
The Colts are facing significant quarterback challenges, with Daniel Jones out for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon, Riley Leonard dealing with a knee injury, and rookie Anthony Richardson on injured reserve due to a facial injury.
What are Philip Rivers’ career achievements in the NFL?
Philip Rivers had a distinguished 17-year NFL career, accumulating over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both categories.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Quarterback | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Daniel Jones | Injured Reserve | Torn Achilles tendon; out for the season |
| Riley Leonard | Injured Reserve | Knee injury; availability uncertain |
| Anthony Richardson | Injured Reserve | Facial injury; on injured reserve |
| Philip Rivers | Practice Squad | Signed to practice squad; potential for active roster promotion |
Now Happening on X
- @FOX59 (December 9, 2025, 12:12 PM) An investigation is underway after a person was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side Saturday morning. View on X
- @johnherrick10 (December 9, 2025, 12:12 PM) Rain and snow are part of Indiana’s forecast, alongside a large fire in Bartholomew and Jackson counties this morning and Martin University pausing operations. View on X
- @Hot1009indy (December 8, 2025, 9:21 AM) IMPD reports a man was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side, followed by a woman dying in a shooting on the near south side a few hours later. View on X
- @PraiseIndy (December 8, 2025, 9:42 AM) IMPD confirms a man was shot and killed on Indy’s near east side and a woman died in a shooting on the near south side hours later. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 8, 2025, 8:00 PM) A large fire broke out at a vacant building on Indy’s near east side, taking firefighters over three hours to extinguish the blaze. View on X
- @RickFOP86 (December 5, 2025, 9:11 PM) Woman shot and killed after robbery attempt at east side business; suspect fled police, leading to a standoff where he shot himself and is now in critical condition, highlighting dangers faced by officers. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (December 5, 2025, 7:45 PM) IMPD is investigating a deadly shooting on the city’s east side following confirmation of a person shot and killed. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 5, 2025, 7:45 PM) IMPD confirmed a person was shot and killed on the city’s east side, with an ongoing investigation into the circumstances. View on X
- @FOX59 (December 5, 2025, 7:24 PM) Breaking: IMPD confirmed a person was shot and killed on the city’s east side. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Indiana Senate to Vote on Redistricting Proposal
Indianapolis Colts Eye Shedeur Sanders for Quarterback Role
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Injuries
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Woes
Colts Bring Back Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Amid 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.
