Philip Rivers Set to Start as Colts Face Seahawks in Upcoming NFL Matchup

Philip Rivers Expected to Start for Colts Against Seahawks

Philip Rivers is set to make his comeback as the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. The team officially promoted him from the practice squad to the 53-man active roster on Saturday, confirming his eligibility to play after nearly five years away from regular-season action.

Rivers had retired following the 2020 NFL season and last played in a playoff game in January 2021. His return came as a direct response to the Colts’ urgent need for a quarterback after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. At 44 years old, Rivers had been signed to the practice squad earlier in the week before being officially elevated to the active roster.

Colts head coach Shane Steichen indicated that Rivers had practiced impressively throughout the week despite his long absence. “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 said. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the challenge Rivers will face adapting to game speed after the hiatus.

Steichen emphasized that Rivers’ role is clear: to provide leadership and steady play rather than to single-handedly save the Colts’ season. “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,” the coach stated. The team has balanced excitement about Rivers’ return with realistic expectations regarding his impact.

Rivers’ promotion means he will be ineligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame until 2031, despite having been a semifinalist this year. The NFL Network was the first to report Rivers’ expected start, which will mark his first game in more than 1,800 days.

As the Colts prepare for the Seahawks, they hope Rivers’ veteran presence strengthens their offense in this critical phase of the season. Head coach Steichen plans a final session with Rivers after practice to assess his physical readiness before kickoff. The game will test if Rivers can quickly acclimate to the pace and pressure of the NFL once again.