Philip Rivers isn’t just back in the NFL - he’s back in the awards conversation. After stepping in for the Colts and making his first start of the 2025 season, Rivers’ odds to win the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award have surged.
Just a week ago, he was a long shot at 15-1. Now, he’s sitting at 5-1, trailing only Christian McCaffrey, who remains the heavy favorite at -210.
Let’s be clear: Rivers’ return is the definition of a comeback. The guy hadn’t taken a snap in four seasons - not because of injury, but because he chose to walk away from the game.
That distinction has sparked some debate, especially in light of the Associated Press’s updated guidance to voters last year. The AP clarified that the award is meant to recognize players who’ve shown resilience in overcoming adversity like injury, illness, or other circumstances that caused them to miss time.
Rivers missed time, no doubt - but it was self-imposed. He retired after the 2020 season and had been coaching high school football ever since.
But when the Colts came calling, desperate for stability under center during a rough 1-5 stretch, Rivers answered. And now, he’s not just filling in - he’s putting himself back in the spotlight.
Despite the AP’s clarification, they won’t be disqualifying ballots that include Rivers. With 50 voters each submitting five names, Rivers is almost certain to appear on several lists. The bigger question is whether he can gather enough momentum - and wins - to close the gap on McCaffrey and the rest of the field.
That’s where things get tricky. Unless Rivers can help the Colts flip their season around and sneak into the playoffs, his comeback story might not be enough to claim the hardware. The narrative is compelling, but this award often comes down to production and impact - and playoff relevance doesn’t hurt.
Other contenders still very much in the mix include Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and Jaguars signal-caller Trevor Lawrence, both currently holding 7-1 odds. Prescott’s been steady and efficient, while Lawrence has bounced back from early-season struggles to keep Jacksonville in the playoff hunt. Both fit the traditional mold of the award: players who’ve battled through adversity and returned to form.
Still, Rivers’ return is a fascinating wrinkle. He wasn’t expected to play a single down this year - or ever again.
Now, he’s not only starting, but he’s also right in the middle of one of the league’s most intriguing award races. If he keeps this up and the Colts start stacking wins, the conversation around Comeback Player of the Year could get a whole lot more interesting.