The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indianapolis Colts</a> vs Seattle Seahawks Week 15 game delivered. It was a shockingly tough test for the host team but still was able to get out of the game with a win. After the game, head coach Mike Macdonald took time to praise one side of his team.



There are some games that present tough, shocking tests, but great teams are capable of winning them. Macdonald said, “Great football teams find a way to win&nbsp;games of all shapes and sizes&nbsp;in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. Freakin’ all three phases… All three phases, awesome job. The resiliency, the relentlessness, all the way to the last second, that’s some high-powered stuff. That’s what great teams do.”



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a> had a tough time but won 18-16. Still, it was a gritty win. After all, the Seahawks were 2/13 on third downs despite winning the yardage battle. Seattle was able to provide just enough production to win the game.



<h2>Colts will be a tough test for the rest of the NFL</h2>



Nobody expected <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> to be out there creating problems for Super Bowl candidates. Still, there he was. Rivers completed 18/27 passes for 120 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in the dying seconds of the game. Rivers, had two great opening drives that unfortunately didn’t end as touchdowns, but he still showed poise and calm in the pocket, despite being really slow.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251215_BUS_546009_philip-rivers-2_14957adb.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Philip Rivers of the Indianapolis Colts." class="wp-image-542454"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers of the Indianapolis Colts.</figcaption></figure>



The Seahawks, which are one of the most dominant defenses in the NFL had some issues trying to stop a 44-year-old. Credit has to be given to Shane Steichen and how he drew the gameplan. If that’s how the Colts will look like, they won’t be an easy team to beat by any means.


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<h2>The Seahawks got a vital win</h2>



The Seahawks couldn’t afford to lose this game. The Rams are 11-3 and clinched a playoff spot and if the Seahawks lost, they would’ve pretty much derailed any chance to win the division. Next week, the Seahawks and Rams will play once again and Seattle could not only win and tie the series, but get a better record than the Rams as well.



Macdonald said it best, “Great football teams find a way to win&nbsp;games.” The Seahawks proved they are a great football team indeed. The first seed of the NFC is still open and what happened in Week 15 could have plenty to do to shape up this team for the postseason.

Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald praises one key factor after Week 15 win vs Philip Rivers and the Colts

Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald praises one key factor after Week 15 win vs Philip Rivers and the Colts - Bolavip US

miniaturas

One of the standout storylines of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> slate undoubtedly centered on what unfolded at Lumen Field, where the Indianapolis Colts took on the Seattle Seahawks. It was there that Philip Rivers officially returned to the field after a lengthy absence following his retirement, and the quarterback looked as sharp as ever.



Many may have believed the veteran was brought in simply to fill a limited role and help his teammates close out the season in the most respectable way possible. However, after a narrow defeat, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Rivers</a>’ competitive fire was on full display, delivering a clear postgame message to his teammates.



“If I can stay healthy, I feel good, and it is going to get better as we go,” he said to the press. “But the catch is that we’ve got to win. It doesn’t really matter if it’s getting better as we go if we don’t win because it’s going to be over in three weeks. So that’s the catch there. But it’s going to continue to get better. I mean, this is obviously the first one. We’re talking about three days of practice.”



<h2>Philip Rivers’ numbers in his NFL return</h2>



Veteran quarterback Philip Rivers recently stepped back onto the field for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a>, delivering a respectable but measured performance in his latest return game. The 44-year-old completed 18 of 27 pass attempts for 120 passing yards. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251215_BUS_545759_philip-rivers-1-1_c458d55b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Philip Rivers" class="wp-image-545771"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers #17 of the Indianapolis Colts.</figcaption></figure>



His stat line included one touchdown pass and one interception, with the interception coming on a last-second, desperation heave. Despite the low yardage total, Rivers’ efficiency was decent, evidenced by a 66.7% completion rate, culminating in a 73.1 passer rating for the contest as the Colts narrowly fell short in a tough, low-scoring matchup.


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<h2>Colts still have playoff hopes</h2>



After falling in Week 15, the Colts dropped to an 8–6 record, but they are still keeping their postseason hopes alive. According to the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/standings/playoff-picture">NFL’s official website</a>, their current chances of reaching the playoffs stand at 17% heading into Week 16.



In the AFC South, the Jaguars sit atop the division with a 10–4 record, followed by the resurgent Texans, who have won five straight to reach 9–5. In third place are the Colts, still fighting to stay in the playoff race.



<h2>Indianapolis’ final stretch</h2>



The Colts have three games remaining on their schedule and will need to win all of them to secure a Wild Card spot. The first comes at Lucas Oil Stadium against the 49ers. That will be followed by two pivotal divisional matchups: a home game against the Jaguars, before closing out the season at NRG Stadium against the Texans.

Philip Rivers sends strong message to his Colts teammates following his return to NFL after retirement

Philip Rivers sends strong message to his Colts teammates following his return to NFL after retirement - Bolavip US

Philip Rivers delivers strong message to Colts teammates after loss vs Seahawks

Shane Steichen struck a noticeably positive tone after <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis</a>’ narrow 18–16 loss to the Seahawks, choosing to focus less on the final score and more on what he witnessed from Philip Rivers under difficult circumstances. “I’m very encouraged, there’s no question about it,” Steichen said afterward, signaling that the performance itself carried weight beyond the result.



Steichen pointed to the context surrounding <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Rivers</a>’ return. “For him to go out there and do what he did after five years off, to have a chance to win it and get a game-winning field goal… with 40 seconds left in a hostile environment against a top defense,” Steichen explained, framing the moment as a meaningful test rather than a simple stat line.



Rivers finished the night 18-of-27 for 120 yards, with one touchdown, one interception, and one sack, but Steichen made it clear that the numbers only told part of the story. “It just shows his commitment to coming back and playing the way he did and fighting like crazy for his teammates,” he added. “And I thought it was pretty awesome to see.”



<h2>Rivers is happy to return</h2>



Philip Rivers didn’t frame his return around rust or time away, instead pointing to what he felt immediately stepping back into the building. “Just being in that team meeting and the meetings last night and everything, and a whole week, these guys are all about it,” Rivers said, describing a locker room fully invested long before kickoff.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The high school team Philip Rivers coaches went crazy when their coach, who just unretired last week, threw his first TD pass back in the NFL. (🎥 via <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cbssports</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/colin_james1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@colin_james1</a>) <a href="https://t.co/VOVPgBbEyZ">pic.twitter.com/VOVPgBbEyZ</a>— Front Office Sports (@FOS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOS/status/2000356722985341243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Rivers acknowledged that commitment alone doesn’t guarantee results, especially in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>’s narrow margins. “You can be all about it and you can go after something… and that doesn’t mean you’re going to win,” he explained, noting that effort is universal on Sundays. “There’s a lot of other teams that are doing it too that you’re playing against.”


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Despite the disappointment of the 18–16 loss, Rivers didn’t hide what the night meant to him personally. “It was a real blessing to be back out there with the guys,” he said, before quickly shifting back to the result. “We didn’t find a way to get it done… a few plays here and there I’d like back. But all in all, we just didn’t find a way.”

Shane Steichen explains why Philip Rivers’ night mattered more than the result

Shane Steichen explains why Philip Rivers’ night mattered more than the result - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Philip Rivers</a> looked solid in his first game back with the Indianapolis Colts. Although they couldn’t secure the win, they held a lead at one point. Following the loss to the Seahawks, he shared a message about what he hoped his sons and his high school football team were thinking after watching him play in the NFL again.



When responding in the press conference about how he felt after his comeback from retirement, Rivers said: “Hopefully, my sons and those ball players that I’m in charge of at the school, they’ll say like, ‘C—, coach wasn’t scared.’“ In the game against the Seahawks, he threw one touchdown and one interception.



Despite appearing slightly heavy, Rivers managed to contribute a total of 120 passing yards. He also made it clear that the game wasn’t about him, stating: “This isn’t about me.” The quarterback returned after 1,800 days away and hadn’t thrown a football in an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> game since 2020.



<h2>Rivers knows the Colts are chasing the playoffs</h2>



The loss wasn’t easy for Rivers or his teammates, knowing they are fighting to stay alive for a playoff berth. “We got a team that’s scrapping like crazy to try to stay alive and get in the postseason. So obviously, we’re all disappointed,” Rivers said after the game.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Philip Rivers on his first game back from retirement: "Hopefully, my sons and those ball players that I&apos;m in charge of at the school, they&apos;ll say like, &apos;Crap, coach wasn&apos;t scared.&apos;" <a href="https://t.co/u66Vadhh4j">pic.twitter.com/u66Vadhh4j</a>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/2000386200545132798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



“Came up just short, game kind of played out just how we thought it was going to play out in terms of how we were going to win the game, kind of one of those grind-it-out kind of games. And we didn’t find a way to get it done, is the bottom line.”



<h2>Colts’ playoff picture</h2>



Rivers’ next game will be against the 49ers at home, another opportunity to snap their current losing streak and try to lift their current 17% playoff probability. The game against the 49ers is one of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a>‘ final three regular-season matchups; the other two are against the Jaguars and Texans.

Philip Rivers sends a blunt message after his first game with the Colts

Philip Rivers sends a blunt message after his first game with the Colts - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indianapolis Colts</a> are looking for a miraculous playoff push. In Week 15, they face a superb team in the Seattle Seahawks. What’s the scenario if they lose this game today?



Losing four of their last five games put the Colts in a world of trouble. They are now eighth in the AFC, out of the playoffs. If they lose to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a>, their chances fall all the way to a 23%. It would basically mean they are almost eliminated from January football.



To make it harder, they will deploy 44-year-old, recently-unretired Philip Rivers at quarterback. Rivers’ last game was in January 2021, and he just came back to try and help the team despite not playing football for more than four years. To make it worse, Rivers will face the second-best defense in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>.



<h2>The Colts’ hopes rely on Jonathan Taylor</h2>



Taylor hasn’t lit the world on fire recently after a massive start to the season. In his last three games, his best output is 85 yards. Still, he is the man to take the offensive lead. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="715" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251214_BUS_545288_Jonathan-Taylor-with-the-Colts-in-2022_9ecab18b.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=715" alt="Jonathan Taylor with the Colts in 2025" class="wp-image-50439" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px"></figure><figcaption>Jonathan Taylor with the Colts in 2025</figcaption></figure>



If there is a way to damage Seattle, it’s running the football. They Seahawks are the 15th-ranked rushing defense, allowing 117.8 yards per game. The Colts should lean in heavily on Taylor.


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<h2>Indianapolis went from red hot to ice cold</h2>



The Colts started the season 7-1, but from Week 9 to Week 14, they are 1-4 and looking like an absolute drained team. To make it worse, they lost <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/daniel-jones" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daniel Jones</a> for the season with an Achilles heel tear. 



The team started blowing people out but the NFL catch up to it. The rest of the teams started to load the box to minimize Taylor’s output and force Indianapolis to win with the passing game, and the team is not able to win like that.

What happens if Colts lose to Seahawks today in Week 15 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Colts lose to Seahawks today in Week 15 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

No teams have secured a playoff berth right now and it’s Week 15 already. However, two of the teams that are vying to get into the party will face off tonight. Still, what would happen if the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> lose to the Indianapolis Colts?



Before the game, the Seahawks have a 98% of chances to go to the NFL Playoffs. However, if they lose to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colts</a>, the percentage falls all the wa to 93%. While still a huge number, there are other things that could harm the Seahawks if they lose this game.



If the Seahawks lose, and the Rams win, their chances of winning the NFC West turn very slim, as they would fall one game behind them and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> already beat the Seahawks this year. Hence, it would force the Seahawks to beat the Rams in Week 16 to be back on track. 



<h2>The Seahawks shouldn’t lose this game</h2>



Any given Sunday, right? Still, the Seahawks should really dominate this game against the Colts, who are starting a recently-unretired <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> at quarterback. Never the most mobile QB, the 44-year-old hasn’t played since 2021 Wild Card round. Seattle has the second-best scoring defense in the NFL, so Rivers should be in for a tough return.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251214_BUS_545226_jaxon-smith-njigba_4117c6a9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-545254"></figure><figcaption>Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



Offensively, the Colts have some injuries and the Seahawks have one of the most unstoppable receivers in football. Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> in receiving yards with 1,428. He also leads the league in receiving first downs. He is the reason why this offense looks so good and has a favorable matchup. 


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<h2>Seattle is one of the most complete rosters in the NFL</h2>



When you talk about an elite team on both sides of the ball, you talk about the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks are the second-best scoring defense and the second-best scoring offense in the NFL this season.



It’s as elite as a team can be. They have a solid running game, a top passing game, a tough defense and are very well coached. The only doubt over this team is how quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold</a> will play come playoff time, which is his big debt in the NFL.

What happens if Seahawks lose against Colts today in 2025 NFL Week 15?

What happens if Seahawks lose against Colts today in 2025 NFL Week 15? - Bolavip US

Philip Rivers has made a surprising decision at 44 years old. The Hall of Fame candidate came out of retirement to sign with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> after head coach Shane Steichen lost Daniel Jones for the rest of the season due to an Achilles injury.



Despite backup Riley Leonard recovering from his knee injury, Steichen’s plan all along was to bring in Rivers in an attempt to make an epic push toward the playoffs. The Colts were the best team in the NFL just a few weeks ago with a 7–1 record, but an unexpected collapse now has them at 8–5 and currently outside the postseason.



However, if the Indianapolis Colts manage to win four consecutive games, they will be in the playoffs. That would give Philip Rivers the opportunity to win a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, something he was never able to achieve during his legendary time with the Chargers.



<h2>Is Philip Rivers starting for Colts against Seahawks?</h2>



Philip Rivers is starting for the Indianapolis Colts against the Seattle Seahawks, according to a report from Ian Rapoport. In doing so, the veteran becomes the oldest player in the NFL right now. It will be Rivers’ first start since the 2020 season, when, after signing a one-year, $25 million contract, he led the Colts to the playoffs, where they were eliminated in the Wild Card round.


 

 


<h2>Can Philip Rivers still make the Hall of Fame?</h2>



Yes. Philip Rivers can still make the Hall of Fame, but by signing with the Colts, he will have to wait another five years to become eligible for Canton. This year he was already among the semifinalists, but everything has been reset.


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Is Philip Rivers playing today for Colts vs Seattle Seahawks?

NFL News: Colts have made final decision on Philip Rivers starting against Seahawks

Philip Rivers’ net worth and career earnings: How much money does the Indianapolis Colts QB have?

Is Philip Rivers playing today for Indianapolis Colts vs Seattle Seahawks in NFL Week 15? - Bolavip US

Is Philip Rivers playing today for Colts vs Seahawks?

Is Philip Rivers playing today for Colts vs Seahawks in NFL Week 15?

Shane Steichen and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> have made a historic decision. Adam Schefter has confirmed that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Philip Rivers</a> will be activated and is set to be the starting quarterback in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks.



“Indianapolis Colts are activating Philip Rivers to their active roster from their practice squad, paving the way for him to make his first NFL start in five years Sunday at Seattle.”



Rivers is 44 years old and will look to win four games with the Colts to keep alive the hope of capturing the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> that slipped away from him so many times with the Chargers. However, it seems like an almost impossible task.



<h2>Is Philip Rivers starting for Colts?</h2>



Although it has not been confirmed by Shane Steichen, activating Philip Rivers makes him the favorite to be the starting quarterback of the Indianapolis Colts over Riley Leonard. It is worth remembering that Daniel Jones is out for the rest of the season with an Achilles injury.


 

 


<h2>Can Philip Rivers get into the Hall of Fame after coming out of retirement?</h2>



Philip Rivers will have to wait another five years to be eligible for the Hall of Fame. This year he was already among the semifinalists, but with his return to the NFL, everything resets since he is active again.


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Schefter explains it this way. “By signing to the active roster today, Rivers also now will go from being a semi-finalist for this year’s Pro Football Hall of Fame to not being eligible again until 2031.”

Indianapolis Colts have made final decision on Philip Rivers starting against Seahawks

Philip Rivers’ profile: Age, wife, kids, family, career milestones and all about the Colts QB

Colts have made final decision on Philip Rivers starting against Seahawks - Bolavip US

Colts have made final decision on Philip Rivers starting vs Seahawks

Playing football in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> at 44 years old is not an easy feat. However, Philip Rivers is returning to the Indianapolis Colts and with that, he is joining a club where only a handful of players played at that age, but who are they?



If <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivers</a> takes a snap for the Colts, he would become the sixth 44-year-old to play as a signal-caller in NFL history. He would join Tom Brady, Vinny Testaverde, Warren Moon, Steve DeBerg, and George Blanda. 



While Blanda and Moon are Hall of Famers, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brady</a> clearly will be as soon as he is eligible. Rivers has a parallel to DeBerg, which is that both had four seasons of not playing before returning to the NFL to end their career.



<h2>Brady is the standard, but Rivers can try to replicate some success</h2>



When you look at quarterback play, Tom Brady is the standard to follow, even though that standard is impossible to reach. Still, maybe at 44, Rivers could try to replicate some stuff that Brady did, although it’s impossible for Rivers to replicate the numbers. At 44, Brady led the league in completions, pass attempts, yards, touchdowns, yards per game, and was second in the MVP voting. It’s just unfair stuff by the greatest of all time.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251213_BUS_544657_Tom-Brady-former-QB-for-the-Tampa-Bay-Buccaneers_7ad2bbd0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Tom Brady, former quarterback of the Buccaneers" class="wp-image-439484" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady, former QB for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers</figcaption></figure>



So what kinds of stuff could Rivers replicate? A playoff run. Rivers could definitely make history by qualifying the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colts</a> to the playoffs. At 8-5, Indy needs to win pretty much all games remaining to get into the playoffs. If Rivers manages to help the team go into the playoffs, his legacy would grow immensely.


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<h2>The Colts are desperate to get into the playoffs</h2>



The Colts gave too much stuff trying to win now. Of course it’s not working out. They bet on Daniel Jones and he tore his Achilles, they went all in and gave two first-round picks for Sauce Gardner, who also injured his calf.



Now, the Colts have no quarterback for the future, no first round picks, and desperation as they might miss the playoffs altogether. Now, they depend on Philip Rivers out of retirement to try and salvage this season.

Colts’ Philip Rivers could play at 44: How many other QBs have played at that age in the NFL?

Colts' Philip Rivers could play at 44: How many other QBs have played at that age in the NFL? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/philip-rivers-profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> return with the Indianapolis Colts reignited the discussion about a possible comeback for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a>. Now, the seven-time Super Bowl champion has finally unveiled if he will unretire to play in the NFL again.



At age 44, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/philip-rivers-net-worth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> has decided to play football again. Following this decision, many fans are wondering whether Tom Brady, 48, could follow his footsteps and make his long awaited comeback to the league. However, he does not believe there is any chance of that happening.



“Yes, I certainly could,” Tom Brady said Thursday on playing football again, via FOX Sports. “I think the answer for me would be yes. I’m not allowed to anymore because I’m a minority owner of the Raiders, so I can’t unretire.”



<h2>It is time to shut down the idea</h2>



Tom Brady last played in the NFL during the 2022 season. There is no doubt that the talent is still there, but thinking about a potential return is only driven by nostalgia.



The seven-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> champion has said before that he could still play football. However, at age 48, he is comfortable staying close to the sport in other ways, either analyzing it in the booth or helping the Raiders as a co owner.



Despite veteran quarterbacks such as Rivers or Aaron Rodgers still playing, Tom Brady has made his decision clear: he will not play again. He now has a definitive excuse, as being part owner of the Raiders makes it impossible for him to return due to league rules.


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<h2>No to football, but yes to flag football</h2>



Tom Brady will come out of retirement, but to play a different discipline. Next year, the NFL legend will participate in a flag football event in Saudi Arabia, a sport that requires far less physical demand than football.



The exhibition is not sanctioned by the NFL, as the league has clarified multiple times. Brady will be joined by players such as Christian McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, and Myles Garrett, among others, in the flag football tournament scheduled for March.

Tom Brady makes unexpected revelation about unretiring after Philip Rivers’ return with Colts

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Tom Brady makes unexpected revelation about unretiring after Philip Rivers' return with Colts - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/daniel-jones">Daniel Jones</a> addressed the Indianapolis Colts fans with a personal and emotional message after undergoing season-ending surgery for a torn Achilles. He expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of support, saying, “Thank you… for the overwhelming support,” signaling how much the organization and fanbase meant to him during a difficult stretch.



He also reflected on the abrupt end to his year, calling it a “tough way to end the season” but emphasizing how meaningful it was to “wear the horseshoe and play for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a> fans.” Jones admitted he’ll “miss lining up with my guys,” offering a glimpse into the connection he built within the locker room.



Without Daniel Jones, the Colts’ situation is significantly more complicated. They are currently dealing with a three-game losing streak that is dangerously moving them away from the playoffs. Now, they must rely on a backup quarterback to try and turn things around.



<h2>Daniel Jones’ strong season</h2>



Jones was just one win away from matching the nine victories he achieved with the Giants in 2022. Furthermore, he was only three games shy of matching the 16 games played in a season, which he also posted with New York that year. His season with the Colts ended prematurely after 13 games with an 8-5-0 record.



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Despite being knocked out of the season before the playoff push, Jones officially recorded his second year with 3,000+ yards, a feat he hadn’t accomplished since 2022 and 2019. Additionally, this season was his second-best in terms of touchdowns with 19 total, just five shy of his 2019 total.


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<h2>Who will replace Jones for the Colts?</h2>



Both Riley Leonard and Brett Rypien are available on the Colts’ depth chart. However, a few days ago, Philip Rivers was seen at the team’s practices, suggesting the team is actively seeking a solution to their current crisis. As such, a final decision is pending on who will replace Jones for the remainder of the season.

Daniel Jones sends emotional message to the Colts after his season-ending surgery

Daniel Jones sends emotional message to the Colts after his season-ending surgery - Bolavip US

The last time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> played an NFL game was almost five years ago in the Wild Card round. After just a few days from unretiring, the Indianapolis Colts are preparing to get the veteran going ahead of the Week 15 game against the Seattle Seahawks.



Stephen Holder of ESPN said, “It isn’t difficult to tell who a team is prepping to start. That player is Rivers. Period.” The message is clear, Philip Rivers will go against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a>.



The last statline of Rivers’ career game was 309 yards with 58.7% completion, two touchdowns and a 93.5 passer rating. That game was against Buffalo and they lost 27-24. Rivers went out on his shield.



<h2>Rivers is getting thrown at the wolves… or the Seahawks</h2>



The Seahawks will defend like a pack of wolves. This is not the defense you want to face on the first game after coming back from retirement. Rivers has never been that mobile, and the Seahawks will go at him with full force. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> is a cruel business, there is not much empathy when it comes to sacking the quarterback.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Philip Rivers, Day 2. (With Anthony Richardson making a cameo and taking mental reps) <a href="https://t.co/JXdfOdpJKU">pic.twitter.com/JXdfOdpJKU</a>— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) <a href="https://twitter.com/HolderStephen/status/1999176227572314446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Seattle has the fourth-most sacks in the NFL with 41. The Seahawks also have the second-most interceptions in the NFL. Rivers had double-digit interceptions seasons in all but one season from 2007 to 2020. Therefore, getting your first snaps after five years against this fierce defense is just very bad luck.


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<h2>The Colts need Rivers to make miracles</h2>



A couple of weeks ago, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colts</a> were first in the division. Now, they are out of the playoffs and with a newly-retired quarterback. The current chances of the Colts going to playoffs is 28%. If they win, those odds increase all the way to a 52%. Meanwhile, a loss drops them to 24%. 



The rest of the schedule is not that kind either:



<ul><li>Week 15: at Seattle</li><li>Week 16: vs. 49ers</li><li>Week 17: vs. Jaguars</li><li>Week 18: at Houston</li></ul>



All of those are playoff teams right now.

The Indianapolis Colts send clear message about Philip Rivers to the Seattle Seahawks ahead of Week 15 game

The Indianapolis Colts send clear message about Philip Rivers to the Seattle Seahawks ahead of Week 15 game - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Philip Rivers</a> is back. Despite being 44 years old and risking his potential Hall of Fame induction, the Chargers legend has decided to accept one last chance to win a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> with the Colts, stepping in as an emergency replacement after Daniel Jones’ injury.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> need to win out to keep their hopes alive of reaching the playoffs either as a wild card team or possibly as AFC South champions. However, they face a brutal schedule against the Seahawks, 49ers, Jaguars, and Texans. 



Despite this uphill scenario, head coach Shane Steichen is happy with Rivers’ arrival. “I’m super excited for him. His passion and his obsession for the game is unmatched. For him to come back and want to do this at 44 years old, I think is incredible. I know he’s going to give everything that he has to this organization. I called him Sunday night and said: ‘Hey, whay do you think?’ He said: ‘Yeah, I’m interested.’ On Monday he said: ‘I need to get up there and throw.’ On Tuesday he said: ‘Let’s freaking go.’ We’re excited for his opportunity. He’s one of the most passionate players I’ve ever been around. I know he’s fired up to be back.”



<h2>Is Philip Rivers going to start for the Colts?</h2>



Philip Rivers could start for the Colts because Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard are injured. For that reason, Shane Steichen did not rule out that the veteran might see action this week given the urgency of the situation.


 

 


“Yeah, we’re going to go through this week of practice. See how it goes and then we’ll make a decision at the end of the week probably. So, we’re going to get him through practice.”



The Colts have lost three straight games and, with an 8-5 record, they are on the brink of elimination in the AFC. The situation is surprising because just a few weeks ago they were the best team in the conference.


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<h2>Who is Colts’ starting quarterback?</h2>



Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard could be the next starting quarterback for the Colts. However, it’s important to consider that Leonard is dealing with a knee injury, which could open the door for Rivers to be the starter.



Steichen’s delivered a striking response when he was asked if Riley Leonard would be the starter if he was healthy enough to face the Seahawks in Seattle. “We’ll see how the week goes. We’ll get to the end of the week and make that decision.” So, Rivers might get a chance.

Indianapolis Colts confirm if Philip Rivers could play as starting quarterback against Seahawks in Week 15

Colts confirm if Philip Rivers could play as starting quarterback against Seahawks in Week 15 - Bolavip US

Colts confirm if Philip Rivers could play vs Seahawks

NFL News: Colts confirm if Philip Rivers could play as starting quarterback against Seahawks in Week 15

The Indianapolis Colts made one of the most bizarre decisions in recent NFL history. Bringing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Philip Rivers</a> back from retirement five years after his last snap sounds cool on paper, but it may not work.



The Hall of Fame semifinalist can potentially take the field against the Seattle Seahawks’ bruising defense. And even though the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a> have a solid offensive line, they could still put him on his back.



Nevertheless, Rivers is never the one to shy away from a challenge. That’s why he’s preparing as if he were going to get the nod and start right away for Shane Steichen’s team. 



<h2>Philip Rivers is preparing like a starter</h2>



“I’m preparing like that. And if that’s what they feel, we collectively feel, is the best decision, then we’ll go,” Rivers said, per James Boyd. “Me at 30, me at 44 — going to Seattle and winning in 2025 in Week (15) is gonna be tough.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251211_BUS_543558_Philip-Rivers-will-play-for-the-Colts-again_bebf017c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Philip Rivers will play for the Colts again" class="wp-image-543378"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers will play for the Colts again</figcaption></figure>



Rivers himself admitted that he’s gained a lot of weight since he last played in the league. However, he also said that he’s never been an elusive or mobile quarterback.



The touch has to be there. He’s one of the best gunslingers of his generation. However, it might take a while before he finds his timing again, and things could get pretty ugly for him before that happens.

Philip Rivers talks about potentially starting vs. Seattle

Philip Rivers talks about potentially starting vs. Seattle - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indianapolis Colts</a> have brought back Philip Rivers. Now, the quarterback has answered the question many fans were asking: why did he decide to return to football at age 44?



On Wednesday, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> addressed the media in his first press conference with the Colts following his return for the 2025 NFL season. He explained being able to compete again was the reason behind his decision to come out of retirement and rejoin the league.



“I wasn’t hanging onto any hope of playing again. I kind of thought that ship had sailed,” Rivers said on press conference. “But something about it excited me. It’s one of those deals where a door opens and you either walk through it and find out if you can do it, or run from it. I know there’s risk involved, but the only way to find out is going for it.



“When that happened, in my mind, I was like, ‘What in the world?’ Just how crazy this would be on the quarterback position, I have to admit I thought,’I wonder if Shane will call’. Immediately, the competitor in you gets excited.”



<h2>Is Philip Rivers the best option for the Colts?</h2>



Indianapolis lost Daniel Jones to a serious Achilles injury that ended his season. The former Giants quarterback was having an outstanding 2025 campaign, and the Colts plans will clearly change now with Rivers under center.



Daniel Jones is a reliable dual threat quarterback. While he is not as mobile as Lamar Jackson, he was able to use his legs when needed, something the Colts will not get from Philip Rivers.


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Rivers has never been a mobile quarterback, and at age 44, that will not change. The Colts will now need to protect the veteran in the pocket as much as possible, since broken plays could create major issues for both the quarterback and the offense.



As Rivers himself mentioned, he was done with football. However, Jones injury, as unfortunate as it is, opened the door for his return. Still, it remains to be seen whether he is physically ready and whether he can guide the Colts to a playoff berth this season.



<h2>Age is not the problem; rhythm might be</h2>



Philip Rivers last played in the NFL during the 2020 season. While quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers have shown that age is just a number, the key difference between them and Rivers is rhythm.



The former Chargers quarterback has stayed close to football since retiring, but that is not the same as playing every week. Because of that, it is fair to question whether he can quickly get into game shape and perform at the level the Colts need to stay in the playoff race.

Philip Rivers makes shocking admission about coming out of retirement to play for the Colts

Philip Rivers makes shocking admission about coming out of retirement to play for the Colts - Bolavip US

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