What's Happening?
The Indianapolis Colts are exploring the possibility of signing veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, who recently turned 44, to their practice squad. This consideration comes as the team faces a significant
quarterback shortage due to injuries. The Colts' current quarterback, Daniel Jones, suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in a recent game against Jacksonville. Backup quarterback Riley Leonard is also dealing with a knee injury, although he is expected to start in the upcoming game against Seattle. Additionally, Anthony Richardson, another quarterback option, is recovering from a broken orbital bone and has not been cleared to play. Rivers, who last played in the NFL during the 2020 season with the Colts, is a seasoned player with a history of strong performances, including over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdown passes in his career. He is also a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Why It's Important?
The potential signing of Philip Rivers by the Colts highlights the team's urgent need to address their quarterback situation due to multiple injuries. Rivers' return could provide the Colts with a reliable and experienced option, potentially stabilizing their offensive lineup. This move could also impact Rivers' Hall of Fame eligibility, as signing to the active roster would reset his eligibility clock, delaying his potential induction. For the Colts, securing a veteran quarterback like Rivers could be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in the NFL, especially as they navigate the remainder of the season with key players sidelined.
What's Next?
If the Colts decide to sign Rivers, they will need to determine whether he joins the active roster or the practice squad. Joining the active roster would mean Rivers would need to quickly adapt to the current team dynamics and playbook. The decision could also influence the Colts' strategy in upcoming games, particularly as they face teams with strong defensive capabilities. Additionally, the Colts' management will likely continue to monitor the recovery progress of their injured quarterbacks to assess long-term solutions for the position.
