Philip Rivers Joins Colts Practice Squad at 44 Amid QB Turmoil
In a surprising twist that has captured the attention of the NFL community, the Indianapolis Colts have signed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This marks Rivers’ return to the football field after a hiatus that began following the Colts’ playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills in January 2021.
The move comes in the wake of significant injury woes for the Colts, particularly after quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a torn right Achilles during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars last weekend. With Jones sidelined, the team turned to rookie quarterback Riley Leonard, who struggled to find his footing. Leonard finished the game with 18 completions on 29 attempts, totaling 145 passing yards and an interception, alongside a rushing touchdown that came during garbage time.
Injury Concerns for Leonard
The situation has only worsened for Leonard, as he reported a knee injury to the Colts’ medical staff the day following the game. Insiders have indicated that he is grappling with a PCL strain, which raises further questions about his availability for the upcoming matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. With Rivers now on the roster, the dynamics of the Colts’ quarterback position have shifted dramatically, leaving the starting role in a state of uncertainty.
Decisions Looming for Head Coach Steichen
Rivers and head coach Shane Steichen addressed the media on Wednesday, a day that had initially been scheduled as a walkthrough but evolved into a full practice due to Rivers’ integration into the team. When asked about the plan for the starting quarterback position, Steichen maintained a cautious approach. “We’ll see how the week goes,” he stated. “We’ll get to the end of the week and make that decision.”
As the Colts prepare to take on the Seahawks, the looming question remains: Could Philip Rivers, a seasoned veteran with a storied career, step back into a starting role? The coming days will reveal whether the Colts will lean on their experienced quarterback or trust in the potential of their rookie, Riley Leonard.
