The Indianapolis Colts are set to activate quarterback Philip Rivers from their practice squad, making him eligible to play in their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. This move follows Rivers’ return from retirement, allowing him to step in after Daniel Jones sustained a season-ending Achilles injury. Sources confirmed the decision to ESPN, underscoring the urgency of the Colts’ quarterback situation.
Rivers, now 44 years old, had previously retired after the 2020 season and last participated in a playoff game in January 2021. His signing to the practice squad earlier this week was a strategic move by the Colts, who needed a seasoned leader to navigate their challenges on the field. Coach Shane Steichen indicated that Rivers’ performances in practice have been impressive for someone who has not played competitively in over 1,800 days.
Rivers’ Return and Preparations
In preparation for Sunday’s game, Steichen mentioned that he would conduct a final assessment with Rivers following practice, focusing on ensuring that the quarterback’s throwing arm and mobility were ready for the rigors of a live game. “A guy that hasn’t been out there in five years, to go and practice the way he did this week was pretty impressive to watch,” Steichen remarked. All signs point toward Rivers starting against the formidable Seattle defense, although the transition back to game speed represents a significant adjustment.
The Colts are navigating uncharted waters with a quarterback who has been away from the game for nearly five years. While they have worked to simulate game conditions during practice, Steichen emphasized that nothing can fully replicate the experience of a real game. “You try to do it in practice as best you can,” he explained. “Obviously, the game is a little different. The game speed will be a little different for him, so that’ll be an acclimation period for him if he’s out there.”
Managing Expectations
Although Rivers’ return has generated excitement within the Colts’ locker room, Steichen cautioned against unrealistic expectations. “He’s not here to save the season,” he stated. “He’s here to be a great leader, a great teammate, go out there, operate the offense, get us in and out of the right plays.”
As the Colts prepare for their matchup in Seattle, the focus will be on integrating Rivers into the team while fostering a positive atmosphere. The franchise hopes his presence will not only stabilize the quarterback position but also uplift the team’s overall morale as they navigate the remainder of the season.
