Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad after injuries sidelined both starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. This move aims to provide depth and leadership as the Colts compete in the AFC South. Rivers, who previously played with the Colts in 2020, has significant NFL experience that could benefit the team as they navigate their current quarterback crisis.
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
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 follows the season-ending Achilles injury of starting quarterback Daniel Jones and a knee injury to backup Riley Leonard during the team’s recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Immediate Impact of the Signing
Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, brings extensive experience to the Colts. In his final NFL season, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. His familiarity with Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who served as his quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers, is expected to facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s system. The Colts, currently 8-5, are aiming to stabilize their offense and remain competitive in the AFC South division.
Context of the Quarterback Injuries
The Colts’ quarterback situation has become increasingly dire. Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the first quarter of the game against Jacksonville, effectively ending his season. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard, who stepped in for Jones, sustained a knee injury during the same game. Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. With these injuries, the Colts have turned to Rivers to provide depth and leadership at the quarterback position.
Background on Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers had a distinguished 17-year NFL career, spending 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Colts for his final season in 2020. Over his career, he accumulated over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes, ranking among the NFL’s all-time leaders in both categories. After retiring, Rivers has been coaching high school football in Fairhope, Alabama. His return to the NFL with the Colts marks a significant development in the team’s efforts to address their quarterback challenges.
Looking Ahead
The Colts are scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15. While Rivers’ immediate role is expected to be on the practice squad, his potential elevation to the active roster will depend on the progression of Leonard’s recovery and the team’s assessment of Rivers’ readiness. The Colts are hopeful that Rivers’ experience and leadership will contribute to their efforts to secure a playoff spot in the competitive AFC South division.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indianapolis Colts sign Philip Rivers?
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’ experience in the NFL?
Philip Rivers had a 17-year NFL career, spending 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders with over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes.
What is the current status of the Colts’ quarterback situation?
As of December 10, 2025, the Colts’ starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard is recovering from a knee injury, and rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury. Veteran Brett Rypien is on the practice squad, and Philip Rivers has been signed to provide additional depth.
How does Philip Rivers’ signing affect the Colts’ playoff prospects?
Rivers’ signing aims to stabilize the quarterback position and provide leadership as the Colts strive to remain competitive in the AFC South division. His experience and familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen’s system are expected to aid in the team’s efforts to secure a playoff spot.
Key Features of the Colts’ Quarterback Situation
| Quarterback | Status | Injury Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daniel Jones | Out for Season | Torn Achilles Tendon | Season-ending injury sustained during the game against Jacksonville Jaguars. |
| Riley Leonard | Injured | Knee Injury | Sustained during the same game; recovery status uncertain. |
| Anthony Richardson | Sidelined | Facial Injury | Remains on injured reserve; no current timeline for return. |
| Brett Rypien | On Practice Squad | N/A | Veteran quarterback available for promotion to active roster if needed. |
| Philip Rivers | Signed to Practice Squad | N/A | Recently signed to provide depth and leadership at quarterback. |
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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
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Address Quarterback Shortage
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Amid Injury Crisis
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old 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.
