Philip Rivers Returns to the Colts, and Tom Brady Says He Could Still Suit Up: A Wild Week for NFL Legends
Just when you think the NFL can't surprise you anymore, along comes a twist straight out of a football fan’s fever dream. Philip Rivers, who last played a snap nearly five years ago, is back in the building - and not just for a reunion tour.
The 44-year-old quarterback has officially come out of retirement and is practicing with the Indianapolis Colts, the team he last suited up for in 2020. And yes, there’s a real chance he could be under center this Sunday when the Colts face the Seattle Seahawks.
Let’s pause on that for a second. Rivers, 44, back in pads, calling plays, and potentially leading a playoff-hunting team down the stretch?
That’s not just a feel-good headline - it’s a legitimate football storyline with real implications. The Colts are in the thick of the AFC playoff race, and while Rivers hasn’t thrown an NFL pass in nearly half a decade, his familiarity with the system and his football IQ make this more than just a nostalgic experiment.
And Rivers isn’t the only legendary quarterback making waves this week.
Tom Brady - yes, that Tom Brady - was asked if he could still play in the NFL. The seven-time Super Bowl champ hasn’t played since the 2022 season, but when Colin Cowherd posed the question, Brady didn’t hesitate.
“Yeah, I certainly could,” Brady said. “I think the answer for me would be yes.”
At 48 years old, Brady would tie George Blanda as the oldest player in NFL history if he ever took another snap. But his answer wasn’t just a nod to the past - it was a reminder of what makes elite quarterbacks like him and Rivers so rare.
Brady emphasized that the game, especially for quarterbacks, is “from the neck up.” And that part?
He says it’s still sharp.
That’s not just lip service. Brady’s mental mastery of the game was always his superpower.
The reads, the adjustments, the ability to process in real time - that doesn’t fade the way arm strength or mobility might. Physically, he admits the challenge would be taking the hits and making the throws, but from a preparation standpoint, Brady’s never been one to do anything halfway.
So while it’s unlikely we’ll see No. 12 back on the field, his comments add another layer to a week already buzzing with quarterback nostalgia. Because when one legend laces them back up, and another says he still could, it’s a reminder of how special - and rare - these careers really are.
As for Rivers, all eyes now turn to Sunday. The Colts have a lot riding on this game, and if Rivers gets the nod, it’ll be fascinating to see how much of that old magic he can still summon.
He was never the flashiest quarterback, but he was always one of the smartest, toughest, and most competitive. And if he’s healthy enough to go, don’t be surprised if he gives the Colts exactly what they need: a steady hand, a sharp mind, and a whole lot of heart.
One thing’s for sure - the quarterback position never stops being the most compelling storyline in football.