Indianapolis, Indiana, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad following significant injuries to their quarterback lineup. With starter Daniel Jones out for the season and backup Riley Leonard also injured, Rivers’ experience is expected to help stabilize the team’s offense as they work towards the playoffs. Rivers, who retired in 2021, previously led the Colts to their last playoff appearance and has a history with head coach Shane Steichen, which should ease his integration into the team’s system.
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad, addressing a critical shortage at the quarterback position due to recent injuries. This move comes after starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard is dealing with a knee injury. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, is expected to provide veteran leadership and depth as the Colts aim to stabilize their offense during the final stretch of the season.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
The Colts’ quarterback situation has become dire following Jones’ injury in a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Leonard, who replaced Jones, is also sidelined with a knee issue. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve with a facial injury, leaving veteran Brett Rypien as the only other available quarterback. In response, the Colts have turned to Rivers, who led the team to the playoffs in 2020, marking their last postseason appearance. Rivers’ familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the team’s system.
Rivers’ Career and Recent Developments
Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. After retiring in January 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama. The decision to bring him out of retirement underscores the Colts’ urgency to address their quarterback depth amid playoff aspirations. The team is hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will help navigate the challenges posed by the current quarterback injuries.
Looking Ahead
The Colts, currently holding an 8-5 record, are set to face the Seattle Seahawks in an upcoming game. With the addition of Rivers to the practice squad, the team aims to bolster its quarterback position and maintain its competitive edge as the season progresses.
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 at the quarterback position due to recent injuries. This move comes after starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard is dealing with a knee injury. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, is expected to provide veteran leadership and depth as the Colts aim to stabilize their offense during the final stretch of the season.
What is Philip Rivers’ background and experience?
Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection, ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. After retiring in January 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama. The decision to bring him out of retirement underscores the Colts’ urgency to address their quarterback depth amid playoff aspirations. The team is hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will help navigate the challenges posed by the current quarterback injuries.
How does Rivers’ signing impact the Colts’ playoff prospects?
The Colts, currently holding an 8-5 record, are set to face the Seattle Seahawks in an upcoming game. With the addition of Rivers to the practice squad, the team aims to bolster its quarterback position and maintain its competitive edge as the season progresses. Rivers’ familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the team’s system.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Starting QB Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear; backup QB Riley Leonard is dealing with a knee injury; rookie QB Anthony Richardson remains on injured reserve with a facial injury. |
| Veteran Addition | Philip Rivers, 44, signed to the practice squad to provide veteran leadership and depth at the quarterback position. |
| Coaching Familiarity | Rivers has a history with head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers. |
| Playoff Implications | The Colts, with an 8-5 record, aim to stabilize their quarterback position to maintain competitiveness in the playoff race. |
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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.
