In a turn of events that no football fan was expecting, on Dec. 10, the Indianapolis Colts announced that NFL legend Philip Rivers would be returning to the team.

This comes in the aftermath of the team’s original starting quarterback, Daniel Jones, tearing his Achilles tendon in the Week 14 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Nonetheless, at 44 years old, this now makes Rivers the oldest player in the league, surpassing Aaron Rodgers at 42 years old.

Rivers’ decision to return at such an age was certainly unexpected to say the least.

However, given the scarcity of quarterbacks this late in the season, Indianapolis viewed Rivers as a top candidate, despite not playing an NFL game since 2021.

Although if Indianapolis wants a winning quarterback, there aren’t many options better than Rivers.

Over the span of his original 17-year career in the NFL, during which he spent the majority of his playing time for the Los Angeles Chargers, Rivers would have eight Pro Bowl selections, alongside leading the league in passing touchdowns and yards in 2008 and 2010.

This also coincides with Rivers winning Comeback Player of the Year in 2013.

Rivers’ ability to read defenses and make tough throws under pressure made him one of the most reliable quarterbacks of his generation.

Another demonstration of Rivers’ resiliency would be starting 240 consecutive games, the second-longest streak in league history.

Even in defeat in his return game, losing 18-16 to the Seattle Seahawks, Rivers held the lead for three quarters, where he went 18/27 for 120 yards, one touchdown, and an interception.

While Rivers is not expected to be a long-term starter, the future Hall of Famer looks to prove his doubters wrong.

Now, with the end of the 2025-26 NFL season on the horizon and Indianapolis remaining in the hunt for the playoffs, fans worldwide are hoping Rivers can make one last push to secure them a spot.