Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers will make his first start since the 2021 playoffs this week against the Seattle Seahawks, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Rivers, 44, was signed to the Colts’ practice squad this week after Daniel Jones suffered an Achilles injury in Week 14. With backup Riley Leonard dealing with a knee injury, the door is open for a reunion with the veteran quarterback, who spent his final NFL season in Indianapolis in 2020.
advertise
Rivers agreed to return nearly five years after his last NFL start (a playoff game against the Buffalo Bills on January 9, 2021), thanks to Rivers knowing Steichen from his days with the Chargers. When the idea of helping the Colts was raised, the veteran quarterback was brought in for a workout, and by Tuesday he was excited about the chance to play again.
“Man, let’s go,” Rivers told Colts brass.
Philip Rivers, 44, has been coaching at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, since 2021. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
(Lance King via Getty Images)
After an 8-2 start to the season, the Colts have lost three straight games, putting their hold on the playoffs that once seemed a sure bet in doubt. They currently have a record of 8-5 and are competing for the AFC South Division title and a playoff spot. They are tied with the Houston Texans for second in the division and one game behind the first-place Jacksonville Jaguars.
advertise
Starting in Week 15, the Colts will miss the playoffs, while the Texans will clinch the AFC’s final playoff spot.
Rivers said earlier this week that he’s “not here to save this year or be a hero.” But if it can provide them with some capable quarterback play in the final weeks of the regular season, the Colts could have a chance to break their four-season playoff drought.