Philip Rivers: How Old Is His Grandchild | Why He Came Back | How Much He Signed For

Philip Rivers is one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history. After an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, Rivers initially retired in 2021 — but in 2025 he stunned the football world by making a comeback at age 44 with the Indianapolis Colts. Even more remarkable: Rivers is now a grandfather. In this deep-dive, we explore how old his grandchild is, why he decided to return, and how much he signed for in this unprecedented late-career chapter.

1. Philip Rivers at a Glance: NFL Legend Turned Grandpa

Philip Rivers was a first-round draft pick in 2004 and went on to become one of the most durable and successful quarterbacks of his era. Known for his fiery competitiveness and intellectual command of the game, Rivers spent most of his career with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers before finishing his first stint with the Indianapolis Colts in the 2020 season. 

After retiring in 2021, Rivers focused on family life and coaching high school football in Fairhope, Alabama, where he’s been a beloved figure in his community. 

Now, in late 2025, Rivers has rewritten the narrative of retirement with a stunning return to professional football. 

2. How Old Is Philip Rivers’ Grandchild?

Yes — Rivers is officially a grandfather.

• Rivers’ oldest daughter, Halle, was born in July 2002. 

• Halle welcomed her first child (a baby boy) in late 2024, which made Rivers a grandfather at about 42–43 years old.

• That means Rivers’ grandchild is around 1 year old as of late 2025. 

This is a rare — possibly unique — cross-generation milestone in professional football, reminiscent of former quarterback Brett Favre becoming a grandfather while still an active NFL player. 

In fact, Rivers joins Favre as one of the only grandfathers to play in the NFL. 

3. Why Did Philip Rivers Come Back to the NFL?

Rivers’ comeback was unexpected but driven by circumstance, connection, and opportunity.

A. Colts’ Injury Crisis Opened a Door

In the 2025 NFL season, the Indianapolis Colts faced a quarterback shortage late in the season:

• Starter Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. 

• Backup Anthony Richardson was already on injured reserve with a fractured orbital bone. 

• Rookie Riley Leonard was also dealing with a knee injury. 

With few viable options available, Colts leadership turned to Rivers — a veteran familiar with their offensive system and coaching staff. 

B. Familiarity With Coaching Staff

Colts head coach Shane Steichen previously worked with Rivers during his Chargers tenure. That long-standing relationship made Rivers a logical emergency option despite years out of the league. 

C. Competitive Fire Still Burning

Rivers himself admitted that the opportunity felt right — motivating him to get back into shape and re-engage with the game. He has emphasized taking it “one day at a time,” acknowledging the physical challenges at age 44. 

D. Family Reaction and Support

While his wife Tiffany has been publicly nervous about the physical toll, many of his kids — especially the younger ones — are excited, partly because they don’t remember him playing before. 

Many of Rivers’ older children are equally thrilled, adding to the emotional value of his comeback.

4. How Much Did Philip Rivers Sign For?

There are two parts to Rivers’ contract situation in 2025 — practice squad pay and context from earlier NFL contracts.

A. 2025 Practice Squad Contract With the Colts

In December 2025, Rivers signed with the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad. This isn’t a typical active-roster contract — it’s a practice squad deal that pays according to NFL veteran minimum weekly standards.

According to NFL practice squad salary guidelines for 2025:

• Veteran players can earn roughly $17,500 to $22,000 per week on the practice squad.

This type of contract does not include a large signing bonus or guaranteed money like a typical active roster deal.

So while Rivers’ comeback is historic, it’s not for a major payday — rather, it’s a short-term veteran minimum contract that allows him to contribute and possibly be elevated for games. 

B. Prior NFL Contract History (Context)

For context, during his first Colts stint in 2020, Rivers signed a one-year, $25 million deal with the team — including a substantial signing bonus — before retiring in 2021. 

His total NFL career earnings (prior to this return) exceed $240 million, mostly earned with the Chargers. 

But for the 2025 comeback, the league’s practice squad pay scale is what defines his income — not a traditional active roster contract. 

5. Rivers’ Potential Impact and Legacy

Philip Rivers’ comeback at 44 is more than just a headline — it shows his dedication to the sport, his team, and the competitive ethos that defined his career.

Whether he contributes on the field depends on coaching decisions and game outcomes, but his story resonates across the NFL. At a time when veteran quarterbacks have increasingly extended their careers, Rivers’ return adds a compelling narrative about experience, resilience, and unfulfilled competitive drive.

No matter his playing time, his impact as a mentor and emergency veteran option will be a fascinating chapter in NFL history.

FAQs About Philip Rivers

1. How old is Philip Rivers’ grandchild?

Philip Rivers’ grandchild was born in late 2024, making the baby around one year old as of late 2025. 

2. Why did Philip Rivers come out of retirement?

Rivers returned because the Indianapolis Colts suffered multiple quarterback injuries late in the 2025 season and needed an experienced leader familiar with their offense.

3. How much is Rivers being paid in his comeback contract?

Rivers signed a practice squad contract, earning veteran minimum weekly pay (about $17,500–$22,000 per week) rather than a major multi-million dollar contract. 

4. Has he played a game since returning?

Yes — Rivers has been signed to the active roster and could play, which would make him one of the oldest players to take an NFL snap since his original retirement. 

5. How many children does Philip Rivers have?

Rivers and his wife Tiffany have 10 children — seven daughters and three sons.