Philip Rivers’ First TD Back From Retirement Sends His High Schoolers Into A Frenzy

The Indianapolis Colts turned to retired 44-year-old Philip Rivers after injuries to starting quarterback Daniel Jones left them without an option under center.

Philip Rivers’ First TD Back From Retirement Sends His High Schoolers Into A Frenzy

Philip Rivers (Images via TMZ Sports/People.com)

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The Indianapolis Colts stepped out on Sunday with 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers, who re-tied his boots and put on his cleats for the first time since he retired five years ago. The Colts brought in Rivers against the Seattle Seahawks after their starter, Daniel Jones, sustained an Achilles tear in the Week 14 game, and last year’s starter, Anthony Richardson, has been out of the league since August.

Rivers, who retired after 17 seasons in the league for the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and Indianapolis Colts, had moved from the field to the sidelines since retiring. The father of 10 has been coaching his son’s high school team for some time now.

Needless to say, the whole team was up and about to catch a glimpse of their coach back on the field. And the oldest active quarterback did deliver despite the loss to a high-ranked team, throwing a few dimes that got severe appreciation from the boys he trains.

Players from St. Michael Catholic High School gathered at a local restaurant in Fairhope to watch Rivers start for the Colts. The Cardinals had just completed an impressive 13–1 year, and the team was eager to support their coach.

When Rivers threw a touchdown pass to Josh Downs in the second quarter, the room erupted.

The players jumped from their seats and cheered loudly. Some even climbed onto chairs as they celebrated the moment together. See the video here:

After the game, Rivers later spoke about the video of the celebration when asked whether it was a teaching lesson for his students. He noted that it wasn’t his intention.

I know it’s a story, I know it’s rare and all those things — I wasn’t searching. I was enjoying myself down there being a coach in South Alabama, but these kinda things don’t come up.

Philip Rivers said

Rivers added that, despite his intentions not being anywhere close to being a teaching lesson, there was some message to take away from the game and his role in it. He admitted that he didn’t want the focus on him, but he understood that opportunity doesn’t knock on everyone’s door as it did on his door. He explained that it is a sign to expect unexpected opportunities and be patient and prepared for the opportunity when it comes up.

Can Philip Rivers take the Colts to the playoffs?

The Indianapolis Colts’ 18–16 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15 punctuated the challenge that lies ahead for the remainder of the 2025 season. Philip Rivers’ return to the NFL generated significant attention, but the focus has now shifted from novelty to necessity.

Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers (Image via PFSN)

With three games remaining, the Colts’ playoff hopes are slim but still mathematically alive. Currently sitting at 8–6, Indianapolis is on a four-game losing streak and faces an uphill climb in the AFC playoff race.

According to postseason simulations, the Colts have roughly an 8 percent chance of qualifying for the playoffs. They trail the Jacksonville Jaguars by two games in the AFC South and sit one game behind the Houston Texans for the final Wild Card spot. Despite these odds, upcoming matchups against both Jacksonville and Houston provide the Colts with direct opportunities to control their own destiny.

To realistically remain in contention, Indianapolis must win out. Victories over the San Francisco 49ers, Jaguars, and Texans would significantly improve their chances, potentially pushing their playoff probability close to certainty. The Colts also hold a critical head-to-head tiebreaker over the Los Angeles Chargers, who face a difficult closing schedule, further keeping the door open for Indianapolis.

Encouragingly, the performance against Seattle offered signs of competitiveness. Despite limited preparation time, Rivers provided stability at quarterback position. The Colts were nearly able to upset one of the top title contenders, and that’s hope for the starving Indy fans.

Also Read: Tom Brady Weighs Hypothetical NFL Return After Philip Rivers’ Surprise Comeback