Posted on Dec 29

Rivers returns to Colts as emergency QB, finishes with 0-3 record in three games

Posted Dec 29, 2025

Philip Rivers returned to the Indianapolis Colts as an emergency quarterback, but his comeback ended without a win.

Why it matters: Rivers' unexpected return highlights the ongoing struggles at the quarterback position for the Colts, which have been exacerbated by injuries to both Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson Sr. The team’s search for stability under center has led them down unconventional paths, including bringing back a retired veteran.

The Colts faced significant challenges this season, culminating in their elimination from playoff contention after the Texans' recent victory.
Despite Rivers’ experience, the team has failed to secure a win, going 0-3 during his brief stint.

What’s new: In three starts since coming out of retirement, Rivers completed 63% of his pass attempts, throwing for 544 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions.

Rivers’ performance included a lackluster outing against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he completed 17 of 30 passes for just 147 yards.
Statistically, while Rivers showcased his ability to move the ball, inconsistency plagued his returns, leading to turnovers that proved costly.

Yes, but: While Rivers expressed no regrets about returning, he acknowledged that his performance did not meet expectations.

“I thought this is probably the worst game I've had of the three,” Rivers noted, reflecting on his final performance.
His candid acknowledgment suggests a self-awareness that could bode well for his future in coaching, a path that he hinted at following his playing days.

What to watch: The Colts are now considering rookie quarterback Riley Leonard for their season finale, indicating a shift toward youth and long-term planning.

Leonard's potential start may provide him with invaluable experience heading into next season, especially as the franchise looks to rebuild around a younger core.
This decision also underscores the urgency for the Colts to assess their quarterback depth moving forward.

The big picture: Rivers’ brief return to the field serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the NFL and the critical role quarterbacks play in a team's success.

With modern offensive schemes evolving rapidly, teams like the Colts must adapt quickly to maximize their talent pool, especially amid injury crises.
Rivers’ experience, while commendable, illustrates the challenges of integrating older players into a league that favors agility and younger athletes.

The bottom line: Philip Rivers’ return to the Colts may be short-lived, but it reflects deeper issues within the organization regarding quarterback development and the urgent need for a cohesive strategy moving forward.

As the Colts navigate these challenges, the focus will likely shift to finding a long-term solution at quarterback, whether through draft picks or developing existing talent.

Rivers returns to Colts as emergency QB, finishes with 0-3 record in three games

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 29, 2025

Philip Rivers returned to the Indianapolis Colts as an emergency quarterback, but his comeback ended without a win.

The Colts faced significant challenges this season, culminating in their elimination from playoff contention after the Texans' recent victory.

Despite Rivers’ experience, the team has failed to secure a win, going 0-3 during his brief stint.

What’s new: In three starts since coming out of retirement, Rivers completed 63% of his pass attempts, throwing for 544 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions.

Rivers’ performance included a lackluster outing against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he completed 17 of 30 passes for just 147 yards.

Statistically, while Rivers showcased his ability to move the ball, inconsistency plagued his returns, leading to turnovers that proved costly.

Yes, but: While Rivers expressed no regrets about returning, he acknowledged that his performance did not meet expectations.

“I thought this is probably the worst game I've had of the three,” Rivers noted, reflecting on his final performance.

His candid acknowledgment suggests a self-awareness that could bode well for his future in coaching, a path that he hinted at following his playing days.

What to watch: The Colts are now considering rookie quarterback Riley Leonard for their season finale, indicating a shift toward youth and long-term planning.

Leonard's potential start may provide him with invaluable experience heading into next season, especially as the franchise looks to rebuild around a younger core.

This decision also underscores the urgency for the Colts to assess their quarterback depth moving forward.

The big picture: Rivers’ brief return to the field serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the NFL and the critical role quarterbacks play in a team's success.

With modern offensive schemes evolving rapidly, teams like the Colts must adapt quickly to maximize their talent pool, especially amid injury crises.

Rivers’ experience, while commendable, illustrates the challenges of integrating older players into a league that favors agility and younger athletes.

As the Colts navigate these challenges, the focus will likely shift to finding a long-term solution at quarterback, whether through draft picks or developing existing talent.