Indianapolis, December 10, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts have added 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad following injuries to starting QB Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. Rivers, who previously played for the Colts in 2020, aims to provide experienced support as the team faces challenges this season. With their playoff hopes on the line and a record of 8-5, Rivers’ return is seen as a strategic move to stabilize the offense as they gear up for crucial games against upcoming opponents.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Colts Sign 44-Year-Old Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Injuries
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. Rivers, who retired after the 2020 season, returns to the team following season-ending injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. This move aims to stabilize the Colts’ offense as they approach the final stretch of the season.
Injury Crisis Leads to Rivers’ Return
In a recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard also sustained a knee injury during the same game, further depleting the team’s quarterback roster. With rookie Anthony Richardson already on injured reserve due to a facial injury, the Colts faced a dire situation at the position. In response, the team brought in Rivers for a workout, leading to his signing to the practice squad.
Rivers’ NFL Career and Return to the Colts
Philip Rivers, a veteran quarterback with a 17-year NFL career, spent his final season with the Colts in 2020. During that year, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance, marking the last time Indianapolis made the postseason. Rivers ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns, with 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes. After retiring in January 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama. 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.
Colts’ Playoff Hopes Amid Quarterback Challenges
With a current record of 8-5, the Colts are striving to maintain their playoff aspirations despite the quarterback injuries. The team is scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks in an upcoming game, with rookie Riley Leonard expected to start. Rivers’ addition to the practice squad provides the team with an experienced option to support Leonard and potentially step into a more prominent role if needed. The Colts’ coaching staff is optimistic that Rivers’ leadership and experience will contribute positively to the team’s efforts in the remaining games of the season.
Background on the Colts’ Recent Performance
Following a strong start to the season, the Colts have faced challenges in recent weeks, including a three-game losing streak. The team is working to overcome these setbacks and secure a spot in the playoffs. The addition of Rivers is seen as a strategic move to bolster the quarterback position and provide stability as the team navigates the final games of the regular season.
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 to address a critical shortage at the quarterback position due to recent injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones and backup Riley Leonard. Rivers’ experience and familiarity with the team’s system are expected to stabilize the offense as the team approaches the final stretch of the season.
What is Philip Rivers’ NFL background?
Philip Rivers is a veteran quarterback with a 17-year NFL career, including a final season with the Colts in 2020. During that year, he led the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff appearance, marking the last time Indianapolis made the postseason. Rivers ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns, with 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes. After retiring in January 2021, he has been coaching high school football in Alabama.
How does Rivers’ return impact the Colts’ playoff prospects?
With a current record of 8-5, the Colts are striving to maintain their playoff aspirations despite quarterback injuries. Rivers’ addition to the practice squad provides the team with an experienced option to support rookie quarterback Riley Leonard and potentially step into a more prominent role if needed. The coaching staff is optimistic that Rivers’ leadership and experience will contribute positively to the team’s efforts in the remaining games of the season.
Key Features of Philip Rivers’ Signing
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Signed | Philip Rivers |
| Age | 44 years |
| Reason for Signing | Address injury crisis at quarterback |
| Recent Injuries | Daniel Jones (torn Achilles tendon), Riley Leonard (knee injury) |
| Team Record | 8-5 |
| Upcoming Opponent | Seattle Seahawks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Indianapolis Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers
Colts Add Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid QB Injuries
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Sign Veteran QB to Bolster Playoff Hopes
Colts Sign Veteran Quarterback Philip Rivers Amid Injuries
Colts Sign Veteran QB Philip Rivers to Practice Squad
Colts Secure Veteran QB Philip Rivers Amidst Injuries
Colts Sign Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Crisis
Colts Add Philip Rivers to Practice Squad Amid Quarterback Injuries
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.
