Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to strengthen their practice squad amid a quarterback crisis due to injuries. With starting QB Daniel Jones out for the season and backup Riley Leonard injured, Rivers’ experience aims to stabilize the team’s offense as they face the final stretch of the season. His familiarity with head coach Shane Steichen should facilitate his integration into the Colts’ system while allowing for evaluation without impacting his Hall of Fame eligibility.
Colts Sign Veteran QB 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, has been coaching high school football in Alabama since then. His return aims to provide stability to the Colts’ offense as they navigate a challenging stretch in the season.
Injury Challenges for the Colts
The Colts are facing significant challenges at quarterback. Daniel Jones, who had been leading the team, sustained a torn Achilles tendon during a recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard also suffered a knee injury in the same game, further depleting the team’s quarterback roster. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad. These developments have left the Colts in urgent need of quarterback support.
Philip Rivers’ Return to the NFL
Philip Rivers, a veteran quarterback with a distinguished 17-year career, retired after the 2020 season. During his final year with the Colts, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance. Rivers ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns. 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 smooth integration into the team’s system. Rivers’ signing to the practice squad allows the Colts to assess his readiness without affecting his Hall of Fame eligibility, as being on the active roster would reset the eligibility clock.
Looking Ahead
The Colts, currently holding an 8-5 record, are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak. With four games remaining in the regular season, the team is focused on stabilizing the quarterback position to remain competitive in the AFC South division. The addition of Rivers to the practice squad is a strategic move to bolster the team’s depth and experience at quarterback as they prepare for the upcoming games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did the Colts sign Philip Rivers to the 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 aims to provide stability to the Colts’ offense as they navigate a challenging stretch in the season.
What injuries have the Colts’ quarterbacks sustained?
The Colts’ starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, suffered a season-ending Achilles tear, and backup Riley Leonard is dealing with a knee injury. Rookie Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a facial injury, and veteran Brett Rypien is currently on the practice squad.
What is Philip Rivers’ background in the NFL?
Philip Rivers is a veteran quarterback with a distinguished 17-year career, including a final year 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 does Rivers’ return affect his Hall of Fame eligibility?
Rivers’ signing to the practice squad allows the Colts to assess his readiness without affecting his Hall of Fame eligibility, as being on the active roster would reset the eligibility clock.
What are the Colts’ prospects for the remainder of the season?
The Colts, currently holding an 8-5 record, are aiming to rebound from a three-game losing streak. With four games remaining in the regular season, the team is focused on stabilizing the quarterback position to remain competitive in the AFC South division.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Player Signing | Philip Rivers signed to Colts practice squad. |
| Injuries | Daniel Jones (Achilles), Riley Leonard (knee), Anthony Richardson (facial injury). |
| Rivers’ Background | 17-year NFL career, led Colts to 11-5 record in 2020. |
| Hall of Fame Eligibility | Signing to practice squad does not affect eligibility. |
| Current Record | Colts hold an 8-5 record with aspirations to stabilize quarterback position. |
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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.
