The Indianapolis Colts are responding to Daniel Jones’ season-ending injury by bringing 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement. The veteran will initially be signed to the practice squad.

One of the most exciting comebacks in recent NFL history is actually happening!

According to insider Ian Rapoport, the Indianapolis Colts are signing 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement. The veteran was last under contract with the Colts in 2020, then ended his career in 2021.

Now he could become the backup for rookie Riley Leonard, who has to step in for the injured Daniel Jones. But Leonard is plagued by knee problems.

When head coach Shane Steichen was asked on Monday if Leonard would play on Sunday, he said, “That’s the hope. We’ll see how it goes.” Rivers already practiced with the team on Monday. If Leonard can’t play, Rivers could make his comeback.

Good throws, mediocre conditioning

According to ESPN, Rivers’ training session was impressive. He threw the ball well, but apparently still needs to improve his conditioning. It’s unclear how that will affect his ability to play this week, if necessary.

Rivers and Steichen know each other well. They spent six years together in the Chargers organization, with Steichen as an assistant coach and Rivers as the team’s long-time quarterback. They are in regular contact and often discuss football topics on a weekly basis. Steichen’s relationship with Rivers is said to have played a major role in the comeback.

If Rivers starts a game for the Colts this season, he would be the fifth quarterback in NFL history to start a game at age 44 or older, following Tom Brady, Vinny Testaverde, Steve DeBerg, and Warren Moon.

Despite three consecutive losses, the Colts are currently in the thick of the playoff race.

Colts quarterback Jones suffers serious injury

Jones tore his Achilles tendon in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars (19-36) and is out for the rest of the season.

Without any contact from an opponent, Jones’ right leg buckled as he was throwing the ball. The replay showed only his leg giving way and the quarterback falling to the ground.

Just a few weeks ago, Jones suffered a broken fibula in his left leg, but continued to play despite the injury.