Philip Rivers’ fairytale return with the Colts ends after three games

Philip Rivers’ Future in Doubt as Colts Eliminate from Playoffs

Philip Rivers’ attempt to turn around the Colts’ season appears to have fallen short, and his football career may be nearing its end.

The 44-year-old quarterback will not be starting in Week 18; instead, rookie Riley Leonard will take the reins as Indianapolis has officially been knocked out of playoff contention, according to ESPN.

During his brief tenure, Rivers managed to throw four touchdowns against three interceptions in three starts, but unfortunately, the Colts (8-8) couldn’t secure any wins during that time.

Colts coach Shane Steichen mentioned on Monday that determining the Week 18 starter is still under discussion, and he plans to announce the decision later in the week.

“Bringing Philip here was his desire, and he wanted to compete,” Steichen explained. “Now there’s just one game left, and we’re still having discussions to gauge how things are looking, as well as giving Riley a chance to play. Those conversations are ongoing.”

Rivers’ comeback, while intriguing, did not yield significant results. As a father of ten and a grandfather, he returned at 44 for what seemed like a final shot at success, making it one of the more captivating narratives of the season.

Having been a teacher previously, Rivers opted to put his Hall of Fame aspirations on hold, aiming to revive a Colts season that had been disrupted by injuries.

The veteran’s assignment was daunting, facing three playoff-bound teams, and he struggled against most of them in his return to the field.

In his comeback game against Seattle on December 14, Rivers completed 18 of 27 passes for 120 yards, accompanied by one touchdown and one interception.

However, during a home loss to the 49ers in Week 16, he demonstrated flashes of his former self, accruing 277 yards and two touchdowns.

In his last game, facing the Jaguars, he wrapped up with 17 completions on 30 attempts for 147 yards, a touchdown, and another interception.

Across these three games, Rivers had a completion rate of 63%.

With the upcoming game in Week 18 having no implications for their season, it makes sense for the Colts to focus on Leonard, a sixth-round pick in 2025, as they prepare for the offseason.

Meanwhile, Daniel Jones finds himself a free agent after a serious injury, leaving uncertainty around his future with Anthony Richardson’s team.

Steichen commented, “If Riley can start on Sunday, it will be a great opportunity for him. It’s vital for his growth, and we’re considering all of that.”