The Indianapolis Colts are at a crossroads, and Dan Orlovsky isn’t mincing words about which direction they should take. With a potential playoff push still in play, the former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst made it clear: if Riley Leonard is even close to healthy, he needs to be under center in Week 15.
That’s despite the buzz surrounding Philip Rivers, who’s back in the building - at least on the practice squad - and drawing plenty of nostalgic attention. Rivers, now 44, hasn’t thrown a meaningful NFL pass since the 2020 season, when he wrapped up his career with the Colts after 16 years with the Chargers. His return has sparked some excitement, but Orlovsky pumped the brakes on the idea of a Rivers-led revival.
"If he was even remotely healthy, [Riley Leonard] should be the one playing." @danorlovsky7 on which QB the Colts should be playing in Week 15 ✍️ pic.twitter.com/iENv3EHctm
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 9, 2025
“Riley Leonard, what is your knee injury?” Orlovsky said bluntly.
“You're a sixth-round pick with a chance to go on a playoff run. I'd have to be dead to not be on the field.”
That’s not just tough love - it’s a challenge. Orlovsky sees the opportunity for Leonard, a rookie who showed flashes of promise in last week’s 36-29 loss to the Seahawks, as too important to pass up.
Leonard came off the bench after Daniel Jones exited and put together a gritty performance. While his stat line wasn’t eye-popping - 18 completions on 29 attempts for 145 yards, no touchdowns, one turnover - he did find the end zone with his legs in the fourth quarter, showing the kind of mobility and improvisation that can spark an offense.
And that’s the point. Orlovsky isn’t saying Leonard is a finished product. He’s saying the upside is there - and in a season where the Colts are still in the mix, that upside matters.
“If he is even remotely healthy, he should be the one playing,” Orlovsky emphasized.
Of course, Leonard’s health is the big question. He’s currently dealing with a PCL sprain, and while he’s tentatively listed atop the Colts’ updated depth chart, his availability for Week 15 remains uncertain. That leaves the team with a decision to make ahead of a tough home matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
If Leonard can’t go, the Colts have two options: elevate Rivers from the practice squad or roll with Brett Rypien, who’s currently the only other quarterback on the active roster. Neither option is ideal in terms of long-term growth or short-term explosiveness, but they may be forced to go that route if Leonard isn’t cleared.
Still, Orlovsky is pushing for the Colts to bet on the rookie. It’s not just about this week - it’s about what Leonard could become if given the reins now. The sixth-rounder has already shown poise in a tough spot, and in a league that rewards bold decisions, giving him the nod could be the move that defines the Colts’ season.
The Rivers story is compelling - a veteran returning for one last ride. But Orlovsky’s message is clear: the future might already be on the roster, and his name is Riley Leonard.