Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
In a strategic move, the Indianapolis Colts have added retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad amid quarterback injuries. With starter Daniel Jones sidelined by an Achilles tear and backup Riley Leonard dealing with a knee issue, the team turns to Rivers for leadership. Having previously played for the Colts in 2020, Rivers’ experience and connection with head coach Shane Steichen could provide the necessary support as the Colts chase playoff contention with an 8-5 record.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move by signing 44-year-old retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision addresses a pressing need at the quarterback position due to a series of injuries that have plagued the team. With starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffering a season-ending Achilles tear and backup Riley Leonard experiencing a knee injury during a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Colts find themselves in a precarious situation. Additionally, rookie Anthony Richardson is sidelined with an orbital fracture, further depleting the quarterback roster. Rivers, who retired in 2021 after an impressive 17-year NFL career—ending with the Colts in 2020—has since been coaching high school football in Alabama. His previous connection with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who was his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator at the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate his reintegration into the Colts’ system.
Currently sporting an 8-5 record, the Colts are aiming to stabilize their offensive capabilities and maintain competitiveness in the playoff race. Rivers’ extensive experience and seasoned leadership are viewed as assets that may prove invaluable as the team navigates the remainder of its season. Notably, Rivers’ addition to the practice squad will not impact his Hall of Fame eligibility, as such placement does not reset the mandatory five-year waiting period for induction.
Why the Colts Signed Philip Rivers
The Colts’ pressing need for a veteran quarterback led to the decision to enlist Rivers. With the critical injuries to both their starting and backup quarterbacks, Rivers offers a wealth of knowledge and experience that can guide the team’s younger players. The team is confident that his presence will help stabilize the offense during this challenging period.
Philip Rivers’ Background and Experience
Rivers is no stranger to the Colts organization, having played for the team in their 2020 season following a long career that includes significant achievements with the San Diego Chargers. Since retiring from professional football, he has dedicated his time to coaching high school football, enhancing his leadership and mentoring skills. His familiarity with Head Coach Shane Steichen is expected to streamline his role and allow for seamless integration into the current offensive strategies in place.
Understanding Hall of Fame Eligibility
Rivers’ signing to the practice squad presents interesting implications for his Hall of Fame eligibility. Being on the practice squad does not reset the formal five-year waiting period required for consideration into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Therefore, his status remains unchanged as he supports the Colts while pursuing other interests off the field.
Current State of the Colts’ Quarterback Position
As the Colts navigate these challenges, the current landscape of their quarterback situation looks critical. With two key players injured and a rookie sidelined, Rivers’ return, even in a practice capacity, provides a hopeful outlook for fans and management alike. The Colts remain committed to enhancing their offensive performance with a focus on winning games and securing a playoff spot this season.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
As Indianapolis continues to rally behind their Colts, the addition of Philip Rivers to the practice squad highlights the resilience and depth of the team’s strategic planning. By relying on seasoned leadership, the Colts are demonstrating a proactive approach to weathering the injury storm while remaining competitive. Fans and local supporters are encouraged to stay engaged with the team as they strive for success both on and off the field, reinforcing the spirit of Indianapolis’ commitment to sportsmanship and community support.
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 due to recent injuries. Starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury during the team’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with an orbital fracture, further depleting the team’s quarterback roster.
What is Philip Rivers’ background and experience?
Philip Rivers retired in 2021 after a 17-year NFL career, including a final season with the Colts in 2020. He has been coaching high school football in Alabama since his retirement. Rivers is familiar with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, which is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s system.
How does Rivers’ signing affect his Hall of Fame eligibility?
Rivers’ addition to the practice squad does not affect his Hall of Fame eligibility, as being on the practice squad does not reset the five-year waiting period for induction. If he were to be moved to the active roster, his eligibility would be delayed by five years.
Key Features of the Indianapolis Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Quarterback | Daniel Jones |
| Injury to Starting Quarterback | Season-ending Achilles tear |
| Backup Quarterback | Riley Leonard |
| Injury to Backup Quarterback | Knee injury |
| Rookie Quarterback | Anthony Richardson |
| Injury to Rookie Quarterback | Orbital fracture |
| Veteran Quarterback Added | Philip Rivers |
| Rivers’ Previous Team | Indianapolis Colts (2020 season) |
| Rivers’ Coaching Experience | High school football in Alabama |
| Rivers’ Relationship with Head Coach | Familiarity with Shane Steichen from Chargers |
| Colts’ Current Record | 8-5 |
| Colts’ Playoff Status | Seeking to remain competitive in the playoff race |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Indianapolis Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Due to Injuries
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Add Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
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.
