Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
In a bid to address a major injury crisis at the quarterback position, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This strategic move follows injuries sustained by both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard, putting the team in a challenging position as they aim to maintain their playoff hopes. Rivers, who previously led the Colts to a playoff berth in 2020, brings valuable experience and leadership to a team in dire need of stability as they head into a critical matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Address Quarterback Injury Crisis
Veteran QB Returns as Team Faces Critical Challenges in Playoff Race
Indianapolis, Indiana – In a strategic move to bolster their struggling quarterback lineup, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision comes in response to a critical shortage at the position, stemming from recent injuries to both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. Following a tough 36-19 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025, the Colts are making every effort to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Rivers, who enjoyed a successful 17-year career in the NFL before retiring after the 2020 season, spent his time post-retirement coaching high school football in Alabama. His decision to return to the league follows a workout with the Colts on December 8, where he showcased enough potential to warrant a place on the practice roster. The Colts are currently evaluating his performance to determine if he is ready for activation to the active roster in the critical weeks ahead.
Recent Developments
- December 7, 2025: Daniel Jones suffers a season-ending Achilles tear in a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- December 8, 2025: Riley Leonard sustains a knee injury during the same game.
- December 9, 2025: Colts sign Philip Rivers to the practice squad following a workout.
Looking Ahead: Week 15 Matchup
As the Colts (8-5) prepare for their Week 15 game against the Seattle Seahawks (10-3), the urgency to solidify their quarterback situation has never been greater. While rookie Riley Leonard is slated to start, his own knee injury complicates matters significantly. Rivers’ veteran experience could potentially provide the stability and leadership necessary for the team’s offensive strategy as they navigate this pivotal moment in the season.
Rivers’ Experience and Impact
Philip Rivers’ return is particularly significant given his past with the Colts. In his final NFL season, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth. His familiarity with the Colts’ system and the demands of high-pressure situations can greatly benefit the team during this critical juncture. With an eye towards preserving their playoff aspirations, the leadership that Rivers provides could help galvanize the offense and instill confidence in his teammates as they face one of the toughest schedules of the season.
Community and Economic Insights
This surprising turn of events also brings to light the resilience of the Indianapolis Colts as a franchise. Navigating challenges like injuries is part of the game, but the Colts’ proactive approach not only aims to maintain competitiveness but also reflects a broader theme of resourcefulness and innovation that supports local businesses and the Marion County economy. The ability to adapt quickly in high-stakes environments exemplifies the spirit of Indianapolis, where local entrepreneurs and community leaders work diligently to foster economic growth through smart, strategic decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Colts sign Philip Rivers?
The Colts signed Philip Rivers to their practice squad due to injuries to their starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, and backup quarterback, Riley Leonard, leaving them with limited options at the quarterback position.
What is Philip Rivers’ current status with the team?
Philip Rivers is currently on the Colts’ practice squad, and the team is evaluating his readiness to potentially join the active roster, depending on his performance in upcoming practices.
How does this affect the Colts’ upcoming games?
With Riley Leonard also dealing with a knee injury, the Colts are considering Philip Rivers as a potential option for their Week 15 game against the Seattle Seahawks, depending on his readiness.
What is Philip Rivers’ background?
Philip Rivers is a veteran quarterback with a 17-year NFL career, including a final season with the Colts in 2020, where he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. After retiring, he transitioned to coaching high school football in Alabama.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Philip Rivers, 44-year-old retired quarterback |
| Team | Indianapolis Colts |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Reason for Signing | Injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles tear) and backup quarterback Riley Leonard (knee injury) |
| Previous Experience | 17-year NFL career, including a final season with the Colts in 2020, leading them to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance |
| Current Status | Signed to the practice squad; evaluation for potential activation to the active roster based on practice performance |
| Upcoming Game | Week 15: Indianapolis Colts (8-5) at Seattle Seahawks (10-3) |
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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.
