Old Dog, New Tricks: Philip Rivers Steps Back into the Game

The Situation Philip Rivers, who retired in 2020, is making a comeback with the Indianapolis Colts. The team, facing a quarterback crisis, turned to the 44-year-old veteran after their starter, Daniel Jones, went down with a season-ending Achilles tear. Backup Riley Leonard also got hurt, leaving the Colts scrambling for solutions.

The Workout The Colts invited Rivers for a workout, and he impressed them with his performance. This isn't just a random pick-up; Rivers has history with the Colts. He played for them in 2020, leading them to the playoffs with an 11-5 record. His familiarity with the team's offensive scheme and his working relationship with coach Shane Steichen make this a smart move.

Hall of Fame Implications Rivers' return could also impact his Hall of Fame chances. Currently a semifinalist for the Class of 2026, signing to the practice squad won't affect his eligibility. But if he moves to the active roster, his eligibility clock resets, pushing his next chance to 2031.

The Colts' Desperation The Colts' situation is dire. Jones was having a career year before his injury, while Leonard's knee issue leaves the team thin at quarterback. With Anthony Richardson Sr. also on injured reserve, Rivers' experience could be the key to keeping the Colts competitive.

Past Success Rivers' final season with the Colts was impressive. He completed 68% of his passes and threw 24 touchdowns, leading Indianapolis to the playoffs. His return could bring a similar spark to the team.

Strategic Move The Colts' signing of Rivers shows their desperation, but it's also a strategic move. His knowledge of the system and past success with the team make him a valuable addition. Whether he plays or not, Rivers' presence could be a game-changer for the Colts.