Colts Quarterback Crisis Sparks Unprecedented Move: Philip Rivers Returns From Retirement

The Indianapolis Colts have made a stunning move to address a dire quarterback shortage. They signed 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement on Tuesday. The eight-time Pro Bowler last played five years ago and is currently a Hall of Fame semifinalist. This desperate move follows a season-ending injury to starter Daniel Jones.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Rivers worked out for the team just hours before the signing. The Colts, holding an 8-5 record, are fighting for a playoff spot. This unprecedented signing highlights the severity of their quarterback dilemma as the season reaches its critical final weeks.

Rivers Reunites With Familiar System in Time of Need

Philip Rivers is not a stranger to Indianapolis or Head Coach Shane Steichen’s offense. He played for the Colts during the 2020 season. More importantly, Steichen was his offensive coordinator during his final years with the Los Angeles Chargers.

This existing knowledge of the playbook is a major factor in the signing. Rivers can theoretically step in with minimal preparation time. The Colts’ next starter, rookie Riley Leonard, is also dealing with a knee injury. This left the team with no healthy, experienced quarterbacks on the active roster.

Colts Also Vet Record-Setting College QB Seth Henigan

The workout that produced Rivers’ signing also featured another quarterback. The Colts took a look at undrafted free agent Seth Henigan. Henigan was recently with the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad. His college career at Memphis was historically productive.

Henigan left Memphis as the school’s all-time leader in completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns. He threw for over 14,000 yards and 104 touchdowns in four seasons. Bringing him in for a look suggests the Colts are evaluating all possible options for depth.

The fact that only Rivers and Henigan were called in for the workout is notable. It indicates the team had specific interest in the young quarterback’s potential. If signed, he could provide a developmental arm behind the veteran Rivers for the remainder of the season.

The Colts’ quarterback crisis has led to one of the most unexpected comebacks in recent NFL history. The signing of Philip Rivers is a high-stakes gamble to save a promising season. All eyes will be on Indianapolis to see if the 44-year-old gunslinger can still deliver.

Thought you’d like to know

How old is Philip Rivers?

Philip Rivers is 44 years old. He retired after the 2020 NFL season and is now a grandfather.

What are Seth Henigan’s college records?

At Memphis, Seth Henigan set all-time records for completions (1,147), passing yards (14,266), and passing touchdowns (104). His performance made him one of the most productive quarterbacks in school history.

Why did the Colts need a quarterback so badly?

Starter Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. His backup, rookie Riley Leonard, is also dealing with a knee issue, leaving the team without a healthy, experienced option for a crucial playoff push.

Has Philip Rivers played for the Colts before?

Yes. Rivers played the 2020 season for the Indianapolis Colts, leading them to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth before retiring.

Can the Colts still make the playoffs?

Yes. Despite the quarterback injuries, the Colts maintain an 8-5 record. They remain in strong contention for an AFC Wild Card spot with four games remaining in the regular season.