In a stunning turn of events, Philip Rivers — age 44 — is making an unexpected NFL comeback in 2025, several years after retiring. The veteran quarterback has been signed by the Indianapolis Colts amid a deep quarterback injury crisis and is set to start an upcoming game this season.
Philip Rivers’ 2025 Return: A Comeback Story
After retiring following the 2020 NFL season, Rivers appeared to be firmly out of professional football. He had since transitioned into high school coaching and family life.
However, late in the 2025 NFL season, the Colts — facing injuries to starter Daniel Jones (Achilles tear) and backups Anthony Richardson and Riley Leonard — brought Rivers back into the fold.
Is He Starting This Week?
Yes. Reports confirm that the Colts have added Philip Rivers to their 53-man roster and that he’s expected to start their next game (Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks). This extraordinary decision marks Rivers’ first start in nearly five years.
This move comes as a strategic response to the team’s quarterback shortages and playoff aspirations. Despite his long hiatus, Rivers impressed coaches during practice, earning the opportunity to lead the offense.
Contract Details: 2025 Practice Squad & Active Roster
Rivers’ current deal is structured as follows:
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Practice Squad Contract — Initially signed to the Colts’ practice squad to provide depth. These contracts are week-to-week and not guaranteed long term.
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Active Roster Promotion — Now elevated to the 53-man active roster, which allows him to start games and earn standard veteran pay for NFL starters if he takes the field.
Because he’s now on the active roster, his eligibility for the Pro Football Hall of Fame will be delayed, pushing future eligibility back by several years.
Philip Rivers’ Age: The 44-Year-Old Veteran
At 44 years old, Rivers is one of the oldest NFL players active this season — especially for a starting quarterback. Most players his age are long since retired, making this comeback rare and newsworthy.
Rivers’ age isn’t just a number — it’s a narrative capturing media and fan attention as he defies typical athletic career timelines. His return as a grandfather and former high school coach adds emotional and cultural weight to the story.
Legacy & Impact
Philip Rivers is one of the most accomplished passers in NFL history, with over 60,000 career passing yards and eight Pro Bowl selections. He ranks among the league’s all-time leaders in passing statistics.
His return in 2025 isn’t just about filling a roster spot — it’s a reminder of his resilience, leadership, and football intellect. For the Colts, he brings experience and strategic savvy to a team trying to salvage its season.
Summary
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Starting Tomorrow? | Yes, Rivers is expected to start for the Colts very soon. |
| Contract 2025 | Initially practice squad; now on active roster. |
| Age | 44 years old — one of the oldest active NFL players. |
| Return From Retirement | First NFL play since January 2021. |
