Matt Ryan or Philip Rivers? Colts’ Call Raises Eyebrows, Especially in Atlanta
Matt Ryan hasn’t taken a snap since the 2022 season, but his name still carries weight-especially in Atlanta, where he remains a franchise icon. So when reports surfaced that the Indianapolis Colts reached out to Philip Rivers-not Ryan-after losing Daniel Jones for the season, it sparked more than a few double takes. And for Falcons fans, it stirred something closer to outrage.
Let’s set the stage: Rivers just turned 44. Ryan is 40.
Both are former Pro Bowlers, both had late-career stints in Indy, and both are now retired-at least in theory. So why did the Colts dial up Rivers instead of Ryan?
There are a few layers to unpack here, and they go beyond just age or past performance.
The Colts’ Quarterback Crisis
With Daniel Jones sidelined, Indianapolis suddenly found itself staring down the barrel of a depth chart led by sixth-round rookie Riley Leonard. That’s a tough spot for any franchise-especially one still trying to stay competitive. So it makes sense they’d look to a veteran to stabilize the room, maybe even start if needed.
Enter Rivers. The eight-time Pro Bowler hasn’t played since leading the Colts to the playoffs in 2020, but he’s stayed close to the game and has flirted with a comeback before.
In fact, he nearly suited up for the 49ers in 2023 had they advanced to the Super Bowl. That door never opened, but the interest was real-and mutual.
Now compare that to Ryan, who last played in 2022. His lone season in Indy didn’t go as planned: 12 starts, 14 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, and a team that failed to make the postseason. It wasn’t the graceful exit many had hoped for, and it left a sour taste in some corners of the league.
Was Ryan Ever Really an Option?
That’s the million-dollar question. On paper, Ryan seems like the more logical call-he’s younger, more recently active, and arguably had a higher ceiling in his prime. But there’s a strong chance Colts GM Chris Ballard knew exactly what he was doing when he reached out to Rivers instead.
Rivers has made it clear he’s open to returning under the right circumstances. Ryan?
Not so much. Since stepping away from the field, he’s transitioned smoothly into the broadcast world, joining The NFL Today as a panelist.
And by all accounts, he’s thriving. His deep understanding of the quarterback position and calm, analytical demeanor have made him a natural fit in the studio.
In other words, Ryan doesn’t need football right now-and more importantly, he may not want it.
Legacy Matters-Especially in Atlanta
For Ryan, the decision to stay retired isn’t just about physical readiness or job satisfaction. It’s also about legacy. He’s one of the most important players in Falcons history-a former MVP, four-time Pro Bowler, and the face of the franchise for over a decade.
His brief time in Indianapolis already felt like a footnote, one that many in Atlanta would rather forget. A second stint in blue and white, especially if things went south, could further complicate how his career is remembered. And for a quarterback who gave everything to one city, that’s a risk not worth taking.
That’s not to say Rivers doesn’t have a legacy to protect, too. But his final season in Indy was far more successful, and he’s long been viewed as a guy who could jump back in and manage a game if called upon. He’s also been waiting for the right opportunity-and this might just be it.
What Could Have Been
It’s hard not to wonder what might’ve happened if the 49ers had made the Super Bowl in 2023. Rivers was reportedly ready to answer the call, and that would’ve been one of the more fascinating comeback stories in recent memory. Instead, San Francisco’s quarterback room collapsed in the NFC Championship, and the Eagles punched their ticket to Vegas.
That moment passed, but Rivers’ name has lingered in league circles ever since. And now, with the Colts in need, he’s back in the conversation.
Final Thought
If you're a Colts fan, the decision to reach out to Rivers makes sense. If you're a Falcons fan, it's understandable why the move stings a bit.
Matt Ryan meant more to Atlanta than most quarterbacks ever mean to a city. But at this stage, with a promising media career underway and nothing left to prove, Ryan stepping back onto the field feels increasingly unlikely.
As for Rivers? Don’t count him out just yet. The guy’s been waiting in the wings-and the phone just rang.