Following the midweek signing of 44-year-old Philip Rivers to the practice squad and ensuing reactions from NFL figures like Tom Brady, the Indianapolis Colts have elevated the veteran to start at quarterback Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks—1,800 days after his last NFL game—as injuries continue to decimate the position.
Updating the Colts' quarterback saga, Rivers was activated from the practice squad to the 53-man roster after starter Daniel Jones' torn Achilles (6-8 months out), Anthony Richardson's ongoing injured reserve stint with an orbital fracture, and rookie Riley Leonard's knee issue. Head coach Shane Steichen, a former colleague from their Chargers days, lauded Rivers' quick adaptation to the scheme: "He didn’t forget how to throw a football."
Rivers, who retired five years ago after leading the 2020 Colts to 11-5 and playoffs, embraced the high-risk return: "Dadgummit, let’s freaking go." This marks the longest layoff for a 40-plus starting QB in NFL history.
At 8-5 and eyeing playoffs, the Colts face Seattle's No. 2 defense (17.4 points allowed/game) at Lumen Field, testing RB Jonathan Taylor. A strong outing could extend Rivers' Hall of Fame timeline but boost Indy’s wild-card chances amid a tough remaining schedule.