In a move that could change the Colts’ playoff fate, the Indianapolis team added veteran quarterback Philip Rivers to its active roster on Saturday, making him eligible to start against the Seattle Seahawks.
Colts Bring Rivers Back
The Colts, currently 8‑5, signed the 44‑year‑old Hall of Fame semifinalist to the practice squad on Tuesday. Rivers practiced with the team all week, though he has not taken a snap since the conclusion of his 2020 season. The promotion to the active roster removes him from the Hall of Fame ballot for the 2026 class.
Hall of Fame Implications
Rivers was named last month as one of 26 semifinalists for the Hall of Fame, with the 15 finalists slated to be announced later this month. Hall of Fame rules require a player to have been out of the league for at least five years before his candidacy can be considered. Consequently, the earliest Rivers can be a candidate is for the 2031 class.
Injury to Daniel Jones and Roster Shake‑Ups
The decision to elevate Rivers came after coach Shane Steichen confirmed that starting quarterback Daniel Jones would miss the rest of the season with a torn right Achilles tendon. Jones, who wore No. 17 with the Colts, underwent surgery earlier this week. With Jones sidelined, Rivers will now wear the No. 17 he wore throughout his long NFL career.
Colts’ Record and Playoff Position
Indy has lost three straight games and four of its last five, falling out of the AFC South lead and tying for second place with the Houston Texans. The Colts have slipped into the No. 8 seed for the seven‑team playoff field. Meanwhile, the Seahawks (10‑3) are fighting to stay in the NFC West title chase.
Rivers’ Credentials and Potential Impact
The Colts believe that Rivers, an eight‑time Pro Bowler who earned the 2013 NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and was a 2011 Walter Payton Man of the Year finalist, can salvage their postseason hopes. He still ranks among the league’s top 10 in wins, career attempts, completions, yards passing, touchdown passes, and 300‑yard games.
Other Roster Moves
Riley Leonard, the rookie quarterback, could make his first career start, but he has been dealing with a right knee injury all week. The only other quarterback on Indy’s roster is veteran Brett Rypien, who was also promoted from the practice squad to the active roster this week.
Additional Activations
Indy also activated receiver Coleman Owen and defensive tackle Chris Wormley to the active roster from the practice squad. The team removed the questionable designation from defensive end Tyquan Lewis.
Key Takeaways
- The Colts have promoted Philip Rivers to the active roster, making him eligible to start the Sunday game.
- Rivers’ promotion removes him from the 2026 Hall of Fame ballot, pushing his earliest candidacy to 2031.
- Daniel Jones’ Achilles injury has opened the door for Rivers to wear No. 17 and potentially lead the team.
The Colts’ decision to bring Rivers back into the lineup comes as the team seeks to halt its recent slide and secure a playoff spot. Whether Rivers can elevate the Colts’ performance remains to be seen, but the move signals the organization’s willingness to gamble on veteran experience in pursuit of postseason success.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
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