The Indianapolis Colts are clinging to their playoff hopes at 8-5, but injuries at the quarterback position have thrown a wrench into what was shaping up to be a promising stretch run. With Daniel Jones sidelined by a torn Achilles in the middle of what looked like a career resurgence, and backup Riley Leonard going down with a knee injury shortly after stepping in, the Colts suddenly found themselves without a healthy, experienced signal-caller.
But instead of folding, Indianapolis reached deep into the playbook - and the past - to pull off one of the more surprising moves of the season: signing 44-year-old Philip Rivers. Yes, that Philip Rivers. The 17-year NFL veteran, who last played for the Colts in 2020, is officially back on the active roster heading into a critical Week 15 showdown with the Seattle Seahawks.
The team made the move official on Saturday, also announcing a flurry of roster changes to accommodate the veteran quarterback. Right tackle Braden Smith was placed on injured reserve, while wide receiver Coleman Owen and defensive tackle Chris Wormley were elevated from the practice squad.
Let’s start with Rivers. His return is nothing short of remarkable.
While he’s been out of the league for a few years, Rivers has always been known for his football IQ, quick release, and command at the line of scrimmage. But at 44, mobility was never a strength - and now, it’s even more of a concern.
That’s why the loss of Braden Smith looms so large.
Smith has been one of the Colts’ most consistent offensive linemen since being drafted in the second round back in 2018. This year, he’s been rock solid in pass protection, earning a 71.9 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus over 13 games - a mark that puts him well above average at his position.
With 107 career starts under his belt, Smith’s experience and reliability on the edge were going to be essential in keeping a less-mobile quarterback like Rivers upright. Now, with Smith out and Seattle’s aggressive front - which ranks fifth in the NFL in sacks - coming to town, the Colts’ offensive line will be tested in a major way.
As for the other moves, Coleman Owen is set to make his NFL debut against the Seahawks. The rookie wideout has been waiting in the wings, and with the offense in flux, he might get a chance to show what he can bring to the table.
Chris Wormley, meanwhile, will be making his third and final elevation from the practice squad this season. He’s a veteran presence on the defensive line who can provide depth and a bit of punch up front.
The Colts’ season has taken a dramatic turn, but they’re not going quietly. With a playoff spot still within reach, they’re banking on a familiar face - and a few fresh ones - to carry them through one of the most unpredictable stretches of the year. Whether Rivers can recapture some of that 2020 magic is anyone’s guess, but one thing’s for sure: Indianapolis isn’t done fighting.