Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, who is 44 years old, to their practice squad following injuries to both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. This strategic move aims to provide the Colts with experienced depth as they navigate a challenging playoff push this season. Rivers, who retired after a successful 17-year career, brings valuable leadership and familiarity with the Colts’ coaching staff to help stabilize the team’s precarious quarterback situation.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move by signing 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad as they navigate a challenging situation at the quarterback position. This decision comes on the heels of season-ending injuries to both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard, which has left the team in need of experienced depth as they push to secure a playoff spot this season.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
In a recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Colts faced a difficult defeat of 36-19, during which starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon, ending his season. Backup Riley Leonard also sustained a knee injury, leaving the Colts with a precarious quarterback situation as rookie Anthony Richardson is currently recovering from an orbital fracture. With veteran Brett Rypien on the practice squad, Rivers’ familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen—who previously was his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator at the Los Angeles Chargers—could help seamlessly integrate the veteran into the team’s system.
Rivers’ NFL Career and Recent Activities
Philip Rivers hung up his cleats after the 2020 season, wrapping up a storied 17-year NFL career, which saw him earn accolades over 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Colts. His final year in the league was noteworthy, as he led the Colts to an 11-5 record, throwing over 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. Following his retirement, Rivers transitioned into coaching, leading a high school football team in Fairhope, Alabama. He stands seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes, making him a notable figure in the league’s history. Furthermore, being a semifinalist for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class adds to his impressive legacy. Importantly, joining the practice squad will not influence his Hall of Fame eligibility but joining the active roster would reset the timeline.
Colts’ Playoff Hopes Amid Quarterback Challenges
Currently sitting at an 8-5 record, the Colts are tied for second in the AFC South division, trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars by just one game. To maintain and enhance their playoff hopes through the remainder of the season, the Colts aim to stabilize their offense, and the addition of Rivers is seen as a strategic move to bolster their leadership and experience at the quarterback position during these critical weeks.
Upcoming Schedule and Potential Impact
The Colts are looking ahead to their next match against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, December 14, 2025. While it is anticipated that rookie Riley Leonard will start, Rivers’ placement on the practice squad equips the coaching staff with the flexibility to prepare for various scenarios as they evaluate his readiness in practice leading up to the game.
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 due to season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard, leaving the team with limited quarterback options.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Philip Rivers retired after the 2020 season, concluding a 17-year NFL career that included 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one with the Colts. He ranks seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes.
How does Rivers’ signing affect the Colts’ playoff prospects?
With a current record of 8-5, the Colts are tied for second place in the AFC South division, one game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rivers’ addition aims to stabilize the quarterback position and support the team’s playoff aspirations during the final stretch of the season.
When is the Colts’ next game, and will Rivers play?
The Colts are scheduled to play the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Rookie Riley Leonard is expected to start, but Rivers’ presence on the practice squad provides the team with additional options as they assess his readiness in practice sessions leading up to the game.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Season-ending Achilles injury to Daniel Jones; knee injury to Riley Leonard; Anthony Richardson on injured reserve with orbital fracture. |
| Rivers’ Background | Retired after 2020 season; 17-year NFL career; ranks 7th in passing yards and 6th in touchdown passes; coaching high school football in Alabama. |
| Colts’ Record | 8-5; tied for second place in AFC South division; one game behind Jacksonville Jaguars. |
| Upcoming Game | Sunday, December 14, 2025, against Seattle Seahawks; rookie Riley Leonard expected to start; Rivers on practice squad as potential backup. |
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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.
