Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
In a strategic move, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad amid a critical shortage at the position due to injuries. Starting QB Daniel Jones is out for the season, and backup Riley Leonard is also injured. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, is expected to provide leadership as the Colts aim to secure a playoff spot. The team currently stands at 8-5 and is looking to stabilize its offense during the final stretch of the season.
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Address Quarterback Shortage
Indianapolis, Indiana – In a surprising yet strategic move, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad amid a critical shortage at the quarterback position following recent injuries. Starting quarterback Daniel Jones has been lost for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon, and backup Riley Leonard has sustained a knee injury during the team’s recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Compounding the issue, rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, prompting the Colts to seek an experienced option to stabilize their offense as they head into the final stretch of the season.
Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, brings a wealth of experience and a robust rapport with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, with whom he previously worked at the Los Angeles Chargers. Currently positioned at 8-5, the Colts are working to solidify their place in the competitive AFC South division and maintain playoff hopes. The organization is optimistic that Rivers’ familiarity with the team and his impressive track record can provide the necessary leadership for the challenges that lie ahead.
Background on Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers enjoyed a distinguished 17-year NFL career, culminating in his final season with the Colts in 2020. During that season, he skillfully led the Colts to an 11-5 record and an appearance in the playoffs. His legacy places him among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both passing yards and touchdowns. Since retiring, Rivers has turned his attention to coaching high school football in Alabama, but now faces challenges regarding his readiness and arm strength as he returns to the NFL landscape at an advanced age.
Impact on the Colts’ Season
The Colts are currently tied for second in the AFC South with an 8-5 record, just one game shy of the division-leading Jacksonville Jaguars. With only four games left in the regular season, the team is gearing up for a demanding schedule, with matchups on the horizon against prominent teams like the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers. The addition of Rivers is viewed as a tactical enhancement to bolster the quarterback position and ultimately improve the Colts’ odds of securing a playoff berth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the 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 to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ background in the NFL?
Philip Rivers is a veteran quarterback with a 17-year NFL career, including a final season with the Colts in 2020, where he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. He ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns.
How might Rivers’ return impact the Colts’ season?
Rivers’ return is expected to provide leadership and stability to the quarterback position, potentially enhancing the Colts’ chances of securing a playoff spot as they face a challenging schedule in the remaining four games of the regular season.
Key Features of the Colts’ Recent Quarterback Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries | Starting QB Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon; backup QB Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury; rookie QB Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury. |
| Record | The Colts are currently 8-5, tied for second in the AFC South division, one game behind Jacksonville. |
| Upcoming Schedule | The team faces a challenging final four games, including matchups against the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers. |
| Rivers’ Role | Philip Rivers has been signed to the practice squad to provide depth and leadership at the quarterback position. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Colts Bring Back Veteran Quarterback Amid Crisis
Colts Sign Veteran QB Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
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
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.
