Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) warms up Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, ahead of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Quarterback Philip Rivers has confirmed that he intends to retire for good following a brief and unexpected return to the Indianapolis Colts. After spending part of his retirement coaching high school football, Rivers rejoined the Colts in December 2023 due to injuries within the team. However, the 44-year-old has made it clear he will not be extending his playing career any further.
On the latest episode of FanDuel TV’s “Up & Adams,” Rivers stated, “I am (done).” He emphasized his commitment to family and coaching, noting that he has a son entering his senior year and another son who is starting high school. “We got beat in the semifinals two years in a row. So, it’ll be his senior year. My second son will be a ninth grader. They’ll be on the same team together. So, it’ll be fun to get back with the boys back home,” he said. Rivers expressed enthusiasm about returning to coaching, indicating it would help him engage with his sons and the team.
The Colts, having been eliminated from playoff contention with an 8-8 record, are set to start rookie Riley Leonard in their season finale against the Houston Texans (11-5) this Sunday. Rivers joined the team when starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending injury, but he had not played in an NFL game since the 2020 season.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen reached out to Rivers as a last resort, given the team’s struggles. Their previous connection, when Rivers played under Steichen while with the Los Angeles Chargers, made the decision more feasible. Rivers acknowledged that he would not have returned for any other team, stating, “Everything just lined up. It was a place I’d been, a team I was familiar with, the offense was exactly the same. The coach I knew.”
In his three starts this season, Rivers faced significant challenges, finishing with 544 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions, as the Colts’ season deteriorated. Despite the struggles on the field, Rivers described the experience as a “fun three-week blur that nobody saw coming, including myself,” but he affirmed his decision to step back from professional football. “I’m back to the sideline,” he added, making it clear that he is ready to conclude his playing career.
As Rivers transitions back to coaching, he reflects on how his brief return to the NFL has reshaped his perspective. Engaging with young athletes will allow him to share his experiences and insights gained throughout his long career, while also spending quality time with his family.
