In a surprising twist in the NFL, veteran quarterback Philip Rivers is set to start for the Indianapolis Colts in their upcoming game against the Seattle Seahawks on March 15, 2024. This marks Rivers’ return to professional football after nearly five years of retirement, a move that follows injuries to key players on the Colts’ roster.
Rivers, who is now 44, had previously called it quits after the 2020 season. His retirement came after a distinguished 17-year career in which he was selected to the Pro Bowl eight times and became a Hall of Fame semifinalist. Since leaving the game, Rivers has been coaching football at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, where his son is a four-star quarterback recruit.
The Colts’ situation became critical after starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon. Rookie backup Riley Leonard also faced an undisclosed knee injury, prompting the Colts to reach out to Rivers for assistance. Although Leonard participated fully in practice prior to the game, uncertainty remains regarding the team’s quarterback strategy against the Seahawks, who currently hold a 10-3 record and are vying for the top seed in the NFC.
Rivers’ return not only revives his playing career but also resets his Hall of Fame eligibility clock. According to NFL rules, a player must be retired for at least five years to be considered for induction. Rivers, however, has expressed that while he is honored to be mentioned among Hall of Fame candidates, it is not a priority for him at this stage. He stated, “It’s a real honor to be mentioned with those other 25 guys, certainly… But I’m not holding my breath on that.”
Steve DeBerg’s Similar Journey
Rivers is not the first quarterback to make a comeback at an advanced age. Steve DeBerg did so in 1998, returning to play for the Atlanta Falcons at the age of 44 after a five-year hiatus. DeBerg found success, leading the Falcons to a 7-1 record as a starter that season. He initially retired in 1993 after an 18-year career, during which he played for several teams including San Francisco and Kansas City.
After his retirement, DeBerg spent time coaching quarterbacks for the New York Giants. When the Giants terminated his contract, he resumed throwing passes with his son. Realizing his skills had not diminished, DeBerg contacted former coach Dan Reeves about a potential comeback, surprising Reeves with his proposal. Despite initial skepticism, DeBerg impressed during a tryout and signed with the Falcons.
DeBerg recalls, “I thought I’d be the most valuable third-stringer in history. I had quarterback coaching experience… I thought I’d be able to help the quarterbacks and players understand, and help the coaches game plan.” His unexpected success culminated in leading the Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance that season.
Rivers’ Potential Impact
DeBerg believes Rivers possesses the tools necessary for success in his return. “Rivers has an amazing ability to throw the football. He’s got a really high football IQ. He’s stayed in the game mentally,” DeBerg noted. He emphasized the importance of having a strong supporting team, mentioning the Colts’ solid offensive line and defense, which could play a crucial role in Rivers’ performance.
With the football community closely watching, Rivers steps into a challenging situation with the potential to make a significant impact. His experience and leadership could be invaluable as the Colts aim for playoff contention in a competitive NFC landscape.
As the Colts prepare for the Seahawks, the spotlight will be on Rivers, whose comeback story echoes that of DeBerg’s. The outcome of this game could not only shape the Colts’ season but also add another chapter to Rivers’ storied career in professional football.
