The San Francisco 49ers are focused on their upcoming game against the Tennessee Titans, but they can”t help but be intrigued by Philip Rivers” return to the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts. The 49ers will travel to Indianapolis in December, where Rivers is making headlines with his comeback.
Last December, the 49ers considered bringing Rivers on board following injuries to both Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo, just before Brock Purdy emerged as a standout quarterback. Head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed, “We talked to Philip as soon as Jimmy broke his foot and discussed the possibility of him coming in. I remember telling him that we felt optimistic about this rookie we had.” With no experienced backup and a rookie quarterback who had only seen limited action, the team was uncertain about their options.
As Rivers, now 44 years old, revives his career, Purdy expressed his interest in how Rivers” return would unfold, saying, “Hope so.” Rivers is recognized as one of the top ten passers in NFL history, and Shanahan noted, “When he plays, he”s one of the best quarterbacks of all time. As you age, mobility significantly declines, but arm strength often remains intact.”
Left tackle Trent Williams, who is 37, has aspirations to play into his 40s and is enthusiastic about Rivers” return after a five-year break. “It gives some hope to the older guys that we”ll still be doing it around that age,” Williams stated. He added, “I”ve been a big fan of Philip for a long time, so I”m happy to see him back. I would love to see him out there just for the league.”
Retired Hall of Famer Patrick Willis expressed he isn”t seeking a return like Rivers, even with the 49ers facing challenges at linebacker due to injuries. However, he relates to Rivers” mindset. “There”s not a moment or time where I”ve not felt, “You know what, I think I can still whoop these cats,” but I just don”t have to,” Willis remarked, reflecting on his time in the game.
Currently, the 49ers are dealing with injuries on their roster, with linebacker Tatum Bethune and defensive end Sam Okuayinonu unable to practice. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk is participating in limited practice following a rib injury, while defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos is expected to return to practice soon.
In another development, kicker Eddy Piñeiro has returned after missing games due to a hamstring strain. He expressed gratitude to the training staff for helping him recover from what he described as a manageable injury.
