Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
In a strategic move to address quarterback shortages due to injuries, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision follows the season-ending Achilles tear of starting quarterback Daniel Jones and the knee injury of backup Riley Leonard. Rivers, a respected NFL veteran with significant experience, is expected to support the Colts’ offense and assist rookie quarterback Riley Leonard as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have made a strategic move by signing 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision comes in light of critical injuries, as starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, while backup Riley Leonard is sidelined with a knee injury sustained in the team’s recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. As the Colts navigate these challenges, the addition of Rivers aims to stabilize the team’s offensive strategy and maintain their playoff aspirations.
Rivers, a well-respected figure in the NFL who returned to the spotlight after retiring following the 2020 season, brings a wealth of experience to the Colts. Following his retirement, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Alabama. His presence is expected to be particularly beneficial for rookie quarterback Riley Leonard, who is set to start against the Seattle Seahawks on December 14, 2025. The synergy between Rivers and Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who was previously Rivers’ quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, should facilitate a seamless integration into the Colts’ system.
With impressive statistics, Rivers ranks seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes. His successful past, including leading the Colts to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance in 2020, provides both a boost to the team’s morale and a tactical advantage against upcoming opponents.
Recent Developments
- December 7, 2025: Daniel Jones suffers a season-ending Achilles tear during the Colts’ 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- December 9, 2025: The Colts sign Philip Rivers to their practice squad following a workout.
Upcoming Game
December 14, 2025: The Colts are scheduled to play against the Seattle Seahawks, with Riley Leonard expected to start at quarterback.
Background
Philip Rivers is known for his remarkable career spanning 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, followed by one final season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. His leadership on the field and valuable insights can potentially enhance the young roster’s performance as they aim for playoff contention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Colts sign Philip Rivers?
The Colts signed Philip Rivers to their practice squad to address a shortage at the quarterback position due to injuries to Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard.
What is Philip Rivers’ background?
Philip Rivers is a retired NFL quarterback who spent 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He ranks seventh in NFL history with 63,440 passing yards and sixth with 421 touchdown passes.
Who is expected to start at quarterback for the Colts?
Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard is expected to start against the Seattle Seahawks on December 14, 2025.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Philip Rivers |
| Team | Indianapolis Colts |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Age | 44 |
| Previous Team | Indianapolis Colts (2020) |
| Injuries | Daniel Jones (Achilles tear), Riley Leonard (knee injury) |
| Expected Starter | Riley Leonard |
| Upcoming Game | December 14, 2025, vs. Seattle Seahawks |
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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.
