Colts' Rivers to start vs. Seahawks

Philip Rivers, who hasn't played in the NFL in just under five years, will start Sunday's contest against the Seattle Seahawks.

The Colts announced Saturday that Rivers was officially signed to the 53-man roster. Riley Leonard is expected to serve as the team's backup, while Brett Rypien will be Indianapolis' emergency quarterback.

The 44-year-old Rivers was initially signed to the practice squad after working out for the team this week. Indy added Rivers after starting signal-caller Daniel Jones tore his Achilles in their last contest, a 36-19 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Leonard, who filled in for the injured Jones versus the Jaguars in Week 14, is dealing with a strained knee ligament. However, the rookie logged a full participation designation on Thursday and Friday at practice. Former fourth-overall pick Anthony Richardson entered the year as the Colts' backup, but remains on the injured reserve after breaking his orbital bone in October.

Rivers, who is a grandfather, last suited up in the league as the Colts' starter during the 2020 season. He went 11-5 in 16 regular-season contests and led Indianapolis to a wild-card round game. Rivers threw for 4,169 passing yards and 24 touchdowns while completing 68% of his throws that campaign.

The NC State product will take over a Colts offense that ranks third in success rate and fourth in EPA/play in 2025, according to Ben Baldwin's database. They have been fueled by their ground attack and Jonathan Taylor, who leads the league in rushing yards and touchdowns.

Rivers' first game back will be against a Seahawks defense that is second in the NFL for fewest points per game allowed. They also have the second-most quarterback pressures and fourth-most sacks, according to Next Gen Stats.

Rivers has thrown for over 63,400 yards with a career record of 134-106 since his rookie season with the San Diego Chargers.

Indianapolis has lost three straight games and is fighting for a playoff spot after surrendering the AFC South division lead last weekend.