Philip Rivers Returns to NFL, Joins Colts Amid Quarterback Crisis
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — In an unexpected turn of events, Philip Rivers, the 44-year-old NFL veteran who last played in 2020, has rejoined the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad, potentially suiting up for Sunday’s game as the team grapples with a severe quarterback shortage. Rivers, who spent the majority of his 17-year career with the San Diego Chargers before a brief stint with the Colts in 2020, was signed Tuesday amid a string of injuries that have sidelined the Colts’ top quarterbacks.
The Colts are currently facing a quarterback crisis with starter Daniel Jones out for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon, backup Anthony Richardson sidelined with a fractured orbital bone, and third-stringer Riley Leonard nursing a knee injury. Brett Rypien remains an option, but the team evidently sees Rivers as their best chance to stabilize the position. Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowler, accumulated 63,440 passing yards and 421 touchdowns during his career, numbers that have put him on the cusp of Hall of Fame consideration. A source close to Rivers told The Athletic that his signing was “a no-brainer for who gives them the best chance.”
Rivers, who recently celebrated his 44th birthday and became a grandfather, last took an NFL snap during the 2020 season with the Colts. His return comes as a surprise to many, but not unprecedented given his previous openness to returning to the field. In 2021, Rivers was reportedly willing to join the New Orleans Saints as quarterback, and the San Francisco 49ers considered him their emergency choice during the 2023 NFC Championship game when injuries struck their quarterback depth.
With Rivers’ age and time away from professional play, the Colts may lean heavily on their star running back Jonathan Taylor, who is currently leading the NFL with 1,356 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, carrying the ball 247 times this season. Taylor’s workload underscores the Colts’ need for a steady hand at quarterback to complement their ground game.
Rivers’ return to the Colts could represent his final shot at a Super Bowl title, a feat that has eluded him despite a prolific career. The Colts, now sitting at 8-2, face a critical stretch of their season where quarterback stability will be paramount.
For more on the Colts’ roster moves and NFL injury updates, visit the NFL’s official Colts page and the USA.gov sports section. The Colts’ situation highlights the broader challenges NFL teams face with injuries, emphasizing the importance of veteran leadership and depth in the quarterback position.
As Rivers prepares to potentially take the field once again, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the veteran can recapture his form and lead the Colts through the remainder of the season.
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