Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, addressing a shortage at the quarterback position following injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard. With a storied 17-year NFL career, Rivers aims to stabilize the Colts’ offense as they push for a playoff spot in the challenging AFC South division. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen could aid his integration into the team as they face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15.
Indianapolis, Indiana
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, responding to a critical shortage at the quarterback position. This decision follows season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard during the team’s recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, has been coaching high school football in Alabama since then. His return aims to stabilize the Colts’ offense as they face a challenging final stretch of the season.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
In Sunday’s 36-19 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars, Colts’ starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard also sustained a knee injury during the same game, further depleting the team’s quarterback roster. With rookie Anthony Richardson already on injured reserve due to a facial injury, the Colts were left with veteran Brett Rypien as the only available quarterback. To bolster their options, the team brought in Philip Rivers for a workout, leading to his signing to the practice squad.
Rivers’ NFL Career and Potential Impact
Philip Rivers boasts a distinguished 17-year NFL career, primarily with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, before spending his final season with the Colts in 2020. During that season, he threw for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. Rivers ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. His familiarity with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s system. However, questions remain regarding his readiness and arm strength after a four-year hiatus from professional play.
Colts’ Playoff Hopes Amidst Challenges
With a current record of 8-5, the Colts are striving to overcome a three-game losing streak and remain competitive in the AFC South division. The addition of Rivers to the practice squad is seen as a strategic move to provide depth and experience at the quarterback position, essential for the team’s playoff aspirations. The Colts are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15, with the quarterback situation being a focal point in their preparations.
Background Context
Philip Rivers announced his retirement from the NFL in January 2021 after a 17-year career. Since retiring, he has been involved in coaching high school football in Fairhope, Alabama. The Colts’ decision to sign Rivers reflects the team’s urgency to address the quarterback position amid a series of injuries that have significantly impacted their roster and performance this season.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Philip Rivers, 44-year-old retired quarterback |
| Team | Indianapolis Colts |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Reason for Signing | Addressing quarterback injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard |
| Previous NFL Career | 17 years, primarily with San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, final season with Colts in 2020 |
| 2020 Season Performance | Over 4,000 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, 11-5 record, playoff appearance |
| Colts’ Current Record | 8-5 |
| Upcoming Game | Week 15 against Seattle Seahawks |
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, following season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Philip Rivers had a distinguished 17-year NFL career, primarily with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, before spending his final season with the Colts in 2020. During that season, he threw for over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance.
How does Rivers’ signing affect the Colts’ playoff prospects?
Rivers’ signing aims to provide depth and experience at the quarterback position, which is crucial for the Colts’ playoff aspirations. With a current record of 8-5, the team is looking to overcome a three-game losing streak and remain competitive in the AFC South division.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Colts Welcome Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Address Quarterback Shortage
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Amid Injury Crisis
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Strengthen Quarterback Depth
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers Amid Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
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.
