Philip Rivers, the retired NFL passing yards leader, is set to deliver a simple two-word message about his future: “I’m back.” The 44-year-old former quarterback heads to Indianapolis for a workout with the Colts, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. While it’s currently just a tryout, Rivers could emerge as a potential addition to the team’s practice squad amid their dire quarterback shortage.
Rivers last played in the NFL during the 2020 season with the Colts and officially retired with the Los Angeles Chargers via a one-day contract in July. Since then, he has coached high school football at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, starting in 2021. His timely return to the spotlight coincides with his birthday and the Colts’ crisis at the position.
Indianapolis faces a playoff push at 8-5 with four games remaining, but injuries have decimated their quarterback room. Starter Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Sunday’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Backup Anthony Richardson remains sidelined on injured reserve with an unusual eye injury, while third-stringer Riley Leonard, who relieved Jones, is now also hurt. This leaves practice squad veteran Brett Rypien as the only healthy option.
The Colts desperately need reinforcements to stay in contention. Questions linger about Rivers’ current fitness after five years away from professional play, especially given his age and recent coaching role. Nevertheless, the team views any viable arm as critical during this stretch run.
Rivers’ potential resurrection adds intrigue to the NFL landscape, blending nostalgia with necessity. Fans recall his record-setting career, including eight Pro Bowl nods and his gritty leadership. For Indianapolis, this workout represents a long-shot gamble, but one worth exploring in their hour of need. Whether it leads to a uniform or just a courtesy look remains unclear, yet the mere possibility electrifies discussions around the league.