The Indianapolis Colts were one of the season’s biggest surprises in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>; however, a string of consecutive losses has put their playoff spot in jeopardy. The arrival of Philip Rivers has yet to pay off, and the quarterback is desperately seeking his first win.



The return of No. 17 to the field was unexpected, and his joy at putting on the uniform again is immeasurable. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Rivers</a> himself admitted he is not fully satisfied, as he wants to win and lead his team to the postseason.



“I’m torn on how to express it, because it’s been a blast,” Rivers said, via Stephen Holder of ESPN.com. “It’s been a blast to prepare and to go stinking get ready and go out there and warm up and do all that with these guys again. But, again, the name of the game is not go have a good time. It’s help find a way to lead your team to a win. And we’ve come up short.”



The AFC South remains undecided, with the Jaguars currently leading the division. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a>, sitting in third place, are hoping for a miracle with two games remaining to secure a Wild Card spot.



<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_20251223_BUS_550404_philip-rivers-3-1_e1a7a419.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Philip Rivers" class="wp-image-550448"></figure><figcaption>Philip Rivers #17 of the Indianapolis Colts.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Philip Rivers’ stats with the Colts</h2>



In his time leading the Indianapolis Colts, Philip Rivers delivered a competitive performance, throwing for 397 yards and 3 touchdowns. While he recorded 2 interceptions, his veteran leadership and a 50.9 QBR kept the offense moving effectively during his stint with the franchise.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/boxing/colts-share-intriguing-update-on-sauce-gardners-injury-as-playoff-push-intensifies"></div>


<h2>Colts’ playoff chances hanging by a thread</h2>



The loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football may have been the final blow to the Colts’ playoff hopes. However, miracles do happen in this sport, and many are still holding out hope for a Wild Card spot.



According to the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/standings/playoff-picture">official NFL website</a>, ahead of Week 17, Shane Steichen’s team has just a 3% chance of making the playoffs. The next two games will determine its fate: first, the Colts will host the Jaguars at home, and finally, they will travel to NRG Stadium to face the Texans.

Philip Rivers makes major revelation after Colts’ latest loss threatens playoff spot

Philip Rivers makes major revelation after Colts’ latest loss threatens playoff spot - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-richardson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Richardson</a> is finally practicing after spending the majority of the season on IR. The Indianapolis Colts activated him as they face a tough last stretch of the season, where Philip Rivers is now under center trying to make miracles happen.



Richardson dealt with an orbital fracture. According to Ian Rapoport of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> Network, head coach Shane Steichen said Richardson is still dealing with some vision limitations, but at least he has been able to return to football activities.



As for now, all signs point to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> to still be the starting quarterback for the Colts. Rivers had a frisky appearance against the Seahawks last week, almost winning a game in what would’ve been the upset of the season.



<h2>The differences between QBs are inmense</h2>



Rivers and Richardson couldn’t be further apart in terms of playing styles. Rivers is 44 years old, has no mobility and was retired two weeks ago. However, he excels at reading defenses, moving the chains and getting the ball where it needs to be most of the time.



<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">More intermediate throws from all four <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Colts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Colts</a> QBs: Philip Rivers, Riley Leonard, Brett Rypien and Anthony Richardson Sr. <a href="https://t.co/IhgckgF602">pic.twitter.com/IhgckgF602</a>— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) <a href="https://twitter.com/RomeovilleKid/status/2001724398810665097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Richardson is 23 years old, not that accurate or able to read defenses properly. However, he is very athletic, has a cannon for an arm, and is an absolute machine running the football as well. Hence, the team could change a lot depending on who is lined up under center.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/revealed-philip-rivers-colts-contract-for-unretiring-at-44"></div>


<h2>The Colts should really test Richardson</h2>



If Richardson overcomes his vision problems, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colts</a> should really let him finish the season. While Rivers’ comeback is very romantic, nostalgic, and courageous, the future is without him, and the Richardson experiment might still be something interesting.



Richardson is young, very raw, but has a career in front of him. If he is able to go, he has to get the reps in the last few weeks of the season. Literally, his Colts career depends on how he fares.

Colts made key decision on Anthony Richardson amid Philip Rivers’ comeback to the NFL

Colts made key decision on Anthony Richardson amid Philip Rivers' comeback to the NFL - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> has made a surprising return to the NFL at age 44. Now, a report has revealed the details of his contract with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indianapolis Colts</a>, including a little-known clause that may have influenced his decision to come out of retirement.



When the Colts announced Rivers’ return, many fans initially thought it was a joke. However, the veteran quarterback was genuinely interested in playing again—not only because of his love for football, but also due to a financial and personal incentive tied to the move.



Clearly, Rivers did not sign with Indianapolis purely for sentimental reasons. His return not only adds to his career earnings but also provides an important benefit that extends beyond the football field.



<h2>Philip Rivers’ contract details with the Indianapolis Colts</h2>



According to Bleacher Report, Rivers will earn a prorated veteran minimum of $278,889 for four regular-season games. Considering his estimated career earnings of $244,223,210, the financial payout alone suggests money was not the primary motivation behind his return.



Every NFL player receives league-provided health insurance, which expires five years after retirement. Rivers originally hung up his cleats in 2020, meaning that coverage had recently lapsed. By returning to the league, he has effectively reinstated his health insurance benefits.



Rivers’ comeback is expected to be short-lived, with another retirement likely after the 2025 NFL season. Should that happen, his health insurance coverage would reset for another five years. If the trend were to continue, it even raises the tongue-in-cheek question of whether he might return again in 2030 just to restart the clock.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/seahawks-hc-mike-macdonald-praises-one-key-factor-after-week-15-win-vs-philip-rivers-and-the-colts"></div>


<h2>Can the Colts make the 2026 playoffs?</h2>



After a strong start to the 2025 NFL season, the Colts have struggled in the second half and currently find themselves outside of playoff contention. Indianapolis no longer controls its own destiny.



The Jacksonville Jaguars lead the AFC South with a 10–4 record. The Colts’ best path to the postseason is through a Wild Card berth, but that would require the Houston Texans to stumble down the stretch in order for Indianapolis to leapfrog them into a playoff spot.

Revealed: Philip Rivers’ Colts contract for unretiring at 44

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

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

Revealed: Philip Rivers’ Colts contract for unretiring at 44 - Bolavip US

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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/philip-rivers-sends-strong-message-to-his-colts-teammates-following-his-return-to-nfl-after-retirement"></div>


<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

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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/shane-steichen-explains-why-philip-rivers-night-mattered-more-than-the-result"></div>


<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 - 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.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/philip-rivers-sends-a-blunt-message-after-his-first-game-with-the-colts"></div>


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 - 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

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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/philip-rivers-profile"></div>

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?

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> is having a very solid season with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> at 42 years old. Now, the veteran spoke about the biggest topic of the week in the NFL: the return of Philip Rivers to play for the Indianapolis Colts.



“I’m not the oldest guy in the league. I love that. It’s pretty incredible though because he’s been out for I believe four full seasons plus this part of this season. I was laughing because a couple of my buddies hit me up asking what I would do in that situation. I said, without missing a beat, I’m retired. I’m staying retired. So, big credit to Philip.”



The Colts began the season as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> favorites and as the best team in the AFC. However, the collapse has been massive, with four losses in their last five games, and they are now also without Daniel Jones, who is out for the rest of the year with an Achilles injury.



<h2>Who is the oldest player in the NFL?</h2>



Philip Rivers is the oldest player in the NFL at 44 years old after it was confirmed that the Indianapolis Colts activated him to the roster to face the Seattle Seahawks. It is a historic decision, as he sacrificed his potential induction into the Hall of Fame in the coming months.


 

 


Until a few days ago, Rodgers held the honor of being the oldest player in the league, and now he simply wishes Rivers the best in a challenge that seems enormous: winning out to reach the playoffs with the Colts.



“I’ve been a fan of him forever. I’ve known him a little bit over the years. I just love the way that he competes and plays. Again, not the most gifted player, but, cerebral. Hilarious trash talker. I wish him nothing but the best. I hope he goes out and it’s just like riding a bike. He can jump right back in the saddle.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-aaron-rodgers-reacts-to-t-j-watts-hospitalization-before-game-between-steelers-and-dolphins"></div>

Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers' message after learning who is the new oldest player in the NFL

Aaron Rodgers’ net worth: How much money does the legendary quarterback have?

NFL News: Aaron Rodgers’ former teammate is reportedly contemplating retirement after stint with Steelers

Aaron Rodgers' message after learning who is the new oldest player in the NFL - Bolavip US

Aaron Rodgers reacts to Philip Rivers signing with Colts

NFL News: Aaron Rodgers’ message after learning who is the new oldest player in the league

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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-mike-tomlin-head-coach-of-the-steelers-had-a-hilarious-reaction-when-he-found-out-philip-rivers-came-out-of-retirement-to-start-for-colts"></div>


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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/the-indianapolis-colts-send-clear-message-about-philip-rivers-to-the-seattle-seahawks-ahead-of-week-15-game"></div>


<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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/philip-rivers-returns-to-nfl-at-44-how-old-was-tom-brady-when-he-retired"></div>


<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

Falcons sign former Tom Brady backup after confirming Michael Penix Jr’s injury

Quarterbacks with the most passing touchdowns in a single season: The masters of the end zone

Tom Brady makes unexpected revelation about unretiring after Philip Rivers' return with Colts - 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>
</div></figure>



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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/philip-rivers-talks-about-potentially-starting-vs-seattle"></div>


<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/rob-gronkowski">Rob Gronkowski</a> publicly admitted he might return to the NFL after finding out that Philip Rivers would play for the Indianapolis Colts. However, the legendary tight end added one condition: it would only be to help on the practice squad.



Tom Pelissero asked Gronk what would happen if Robert Kraft called him to join the Patriots. “You want to know something? I can give them looks on the practice squad seeing Philip Rivers sign to the practice squad which makes sense. You gotta get them game ready and then you can pull them up anytime. But, I would maybe go back if a team was like: ‘Hey, you know, can you give us some great looks on the scout team?’ And we’re going to pay you a legitimate bonus.”



Gronkowski already came out of retirement once to help <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> win a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> during his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now, with this wave of veterans like Rivers or <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> playing, rumors have begun to swirl around different former stars of the league.



<h2>Is Rob Gronkowski coming out of retirement?</h2>



Rob Gronkowski doesn’t seem likely to come out of retirement, but at least in his comments, he hinted that a certain kind of offer (depending on the money) could catch his interest. It still looks almost impossible, although no one expected Philip Rivers to return, and it happened.


 

 


<h2>How much money does Rob Gronkowski want to earn if he comes out of retirement?</h2>



Rob Gronkowski wants to earn one million in a possible comeback to any NFL practice squad. His conditions are very clear if any team picks up the phone to contact him.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-rob-gronkowski-could-come-out-of-retirement-to-chase-super-bowl-with-surprising-afc-team"></div>


“Like a million bucks or something bonus right on the spot. And all you got to do is practice Wednesday, Thursday and Friday on the practice squad and show us some legitimate looks of the tight ends that we’re going against. Just go out there and practice, and have fun. Get our guys better. That actually might be a pretty cool case. I might have to think about that the chances of that happening are 1%. But I would have to just think about it and lay my options on the table.”

Rob Gronkowski is ready to come out of retirement after Philip Rivers signed with Indianapolis Colts

NFL News: Rob Gronkowski confirms if he’ll come out of retirement to win another Super Bowl

NFL News: Rob Gronkowski sends strong warning to Aaron Rodgers, Mike Tomlin and Steelers

Rob Gronkowski confirms he's ready to come out of retirement after Philip Rivers signed with Colts - Bolavip US

Rob Gronkowski is ready to come out of retirement

Rob Gronkowski is ready to come out of retirement after Philip Rivers signed with Colts

<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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-mike-tomlin-head-coach-of-the-steelers-had-a-hilarious-reaction-when-he-found-out-philip-rivers-came-out-of-retirement-to-start-for-colts"></div>


<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

Latest news from Philip Rivers. Find out about all the news related to Philip Rivers on bolavip.com/en