Former quarterback Philip Rivers has recently garnered attention due to speculation about a comeback in the NFL. At 44 years old, Rivers, who retired following the 2020 season, is being linked to the Indianapolis Colts after the team faced a season-ending Achilles injury to quarterback Daniel Jones.
As discussions about Rivers” possible return unfold, NFL insider Peter Schrager has raised questions regarding how this move might affect his candidacy for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Rivers has been named one of 26 modern-era semifinalists for the Hall of Fame Class of 2026. However, an intriguing scenario could arise if he joins the Colts” active roster.
According to NFL Network”s Steve Wyche, should Rivers sign with the Colts, his eligibility clock for the Hall of Fame would reset, requiring an additional five-year wait before he could be inducted. NFL regulations stipulate that players must be retired for a minimum of five years before being eligible for the Hall of Fame.
Rivers, an eight-time Pro Bowler, has been the head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama since 2021. He was selected as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft by the then-San Diego Chargers, where he spent 16 seasons. In March 2020, Rivers signed a one-year contract worth $25 million with the Colts. During his single season with the team, he threw for 4,169 yards, recording 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, which helped lead the Colts to an 11-5 record. Although Rivers guided the team to the playoffs, they were eliminated by the Buffalo Bills, marking the last time the Colts have made a postseason appearance.
Currently, the Colts sit third in the AFC South with an 8-5 record. Despite a three-game losing streak, they remain in the hunt for a playoff spot.
Colts fans can check out the latest Indianapolis Colts schedule and explore the team”s depth chart for the upcoming 2024-25 NFL season.
