The Indianapolis Colts are facing an unprecedented quarterback crisis that could force them to turn to a retired veteran at the height of the NFL season.
It’s been confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the Colts plan to host Philip Rivers, the former NFL star, for a workout this week, exploring him as a potential emergency solution. This comes after a string of injuries left the team with almost no reliable options under center.
Starter Daniel Jones, who had been thriving in his first season with Indianapolis, suffered a torn right Achilles in Sunday’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. This devastating injury will keep Jones sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, backup Riley Leonard, who replaced Jones late in the game, now faces a right knee injury and has been labeled “week-to-week.” With former first-round pick Anthony Richardson Sr. on injured reserve and only journeyman Brett Rypien available on the practice squad, the Colts’ quarterback room is dangerously thin.
Bringing Rivers out of retirement may seem unconventional, but it carries a measure of logic. Rivers, who turned 44 on Monday, last played in 2020 with the Colts, finishing his final season with an 11-5 record and a playoff berth. During that year, the Colts averaged 253.3 passing yards per game, a mark they have yet to surpass in the seasons since.
Rivers‘ familiarity with Indianapolis’ offensive scheme, and his prior working relationship with current head coach Shane Steichen, who was his offensive coordinator in Los Angeles, could make him a seamless fit despite his time away from the game.
Rivers’ return a calculated gamble?
If the Colts decide to sign Rivers, it would be one of the more unusual moves in recent NFL history. He has been out of the league for five years, and questions remain about whether he is in football shape and able to withstand the rigors of professional play.
Yet, his knowledge of the playbook and chemistry with the coaching staff might provide a rare stability at a position that has become a nightmare for Indianapolis.
Rivers‘ 2020 season was remarkable: he completed 68% of his passes, threw 24 touchdown passes, and led the Colts to win four of their final five games, ultimately securing a playoff spot. His leadership and experience could help guide the team through the remainder of the season, even if only for a few weeks.
Should he return, Rivers would make history as only the second grandfather to play in an NFL game, a milestone first achieved by Brett Favre in 2010.
For the Colts, the potential return of Rivers is less about long-term planning and more about survival. With the playoffs still within reach, the team is exploring every possible avenue to stabilize their quarterback situation.
Whether Rivers will accept the challenge remains uncertain, but if he does, Indianapolis could witness one of the most remarkable and unconventional NFL comebacks in decades.
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