Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
In a strategic move to address their quarterback crisis, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision follows injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard, which has left the team in a precarious situation. Rivers, who previously played for the Colts in the 2020 season, brings invaluable experience as the team prepares for their upcoming games. His connection with head coach Shane Steichen is expected to aid in a seamless transition, as the Colts aim to keep their playoff hopes alive amid challenging circumstances.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad in response to a critical shortage at the quarterback position. This move comes on the heels of season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard, which occurred during a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rivers, a well-known figure in professional football, retired after the 2020 season and has since been coaching high school football in Alabama. His return to the field aims to stabilize the Colts’ offense as they aim to maintain their playoff aspirations.
Rivers boasts an extensive career that includes 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and a one-season tenure with the Colts in 2020. In his final season, he led the team to an impressive 11-5 record and a playoff berth. Notably, Rivers remains among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. His connection with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator during their time with the Chargers, is expected to ease his transition back into the team’s system.
The Colts’ Current Quarterback Dilemma
The urgency for Rivers’ signing is clear, as the Colts face a precarious quarterback situation. Rookie Anthony Richardson is sidelined due to a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien currently occupies the practice squad. With both Jones and Leonard out for the season, Rivers’ extensive experience and leadership are anticipated to be invaluable as the Colts navigate the challenges ahead. Upcoming, the team will compete against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15. Rivers’ potential involvement in this matchup could be crucial in their quest for a playoff spot.
The Strategic Move of Signing Rivers
The Colts’ decision to include Rivers on their practice squad reflects a strategic approach to leadership during a tumultuous time for the franchise. By bringing in a seasoned veteran, the organization demonstrates a commitment to leveraging experience to maintain competitiveness in the AFC South division. The addition of Rivers allows the team to offset the significant loss of their starting quarterbacks while continuing to pursue success amid challenging circumstances.
The Community’s Response
Looking Ahead: The Colts’ Future
As the Colts look toward their upcoming games, Rivers’ presence could serve as a stabilizing force for the offense. The team’s playoffs aspirations hinge on their ability to adapt and recover from setbacks, and Rivers’ well-documented resilience could play a pivotal role in meeting those expectations. His experience in the high-stakes environment of the NFL could be just what the Colts need to push through to the playoffs.
Key Features of the Indianapolis Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injured Quarterbacks | Daniel Jones (season-ending Achilles injury), Riley Leonard (knee injury), Anthony Richardson (facial injury) |
| Signed Quarterback | Philip Rivers (44 years old, retired after 2020 season) |
| Upcoming Opponent | Seattle Seahawks in Week 15 |
| Playoff Implications | Rivers’ addition aims to stabilize the offense and maintain playoff aspirations |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indianapolis Colts sign Philip Rivers to their practice squad?
The Colts signed 44-year-old retired 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’ background in the NFL?
Philip Rivers played 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He retired after the 2020 season and has been coaching high school football in Alabama since then.
How does Rivers’ signing impact the Colts’ quarterback situation?
Rivers’ signing provides the Colts with a seasoned quarterback option to navigate the challenges of the remaining season, especially with rookie Anthony Richardson sidelined and veteran Brett Rypien on the practice squad.
What is the Colts’ upcoming schedule?
The Colts are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15, and Rivers’ potential involvement could be pivotal in their efforts to secure a playoff spot.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Injuries
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
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.
