Sun Jan 04 18:50:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a news article based on that summary:

Summary:

Philip Rivers, who retired from the NFL in 2020, has made a surprising comeback to the Indianapolis Colts in December 2025. A call from Coach Shane Steichen and GM Chris Ballard prompted him to reconsider his retirement. Despite initial doubts about his ability to compete after a five-year absence at age 44, Rivers was swayed by his passion for the game, a connection to the Colts organization, and encouragement from his wife. After a whirlwind 48 hours he signed a deal to join the team’s practice squad. He doesn’t regret his decision, even though he was named to start, but he wished he could have led the Colts to a win. The article also mentions other Colts news, including the Pro Bowl selections of Jonathan Taylor and Quenton Nelson, Adam Vinatieri’s Hall of Fame candidacy, the naming of sixth-round pick Leonard to be starting QB in their final game of the 2025 season, Dulin’s injury, and the team’s slim playoff hopes.

News Article:

Philip Rivers Makes Unthinkable NFL Comeback with Colts

Indianapolis, IN – In a stunning turn of events, former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has returned to professional football, signing with the Indianapolis Colts five years after his retirement in 2020. The move, confirmed earlier this week, came after a phone call from Colts Head Coach Shane Steichen and General Manager Chris Ballard convinced the 44-year-old Rivers to reconsider his hiatus.

“It was just one of those ‘you can’t make this up’ kind of deals,” Rivers said on The Jack Doyle Podcast. “I was at peace. It was done. And this comes out of nowhere.”

The decision was not made lightly. Rivers cited concerns about his physical readiness and ability to compete after such a long break. However, the allure of the game, a strong connection to the Colts organization (where he played in 2020), and encouragement from his wife ultimately swayed him.

“The reasons to do it, I love to play, I still have the passion and fire to compete,” Rivers explained.

Rivers will join the Colts practice squad immediately. The team hopes his experience and leadership will provide a boost as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

In other Colts news:

  • Jonathan Taylor and Quenton Nelson were named to the 2026 Pro Bowl.
  • Adam Vinatieri is a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
  • Sixth-round pick Leonard to be starting QB in their final game of the 2025 season.
  • Dulin was placed on injured reserve.
  • The Colts’ playoff chances remain slim but are still mathematically possible.

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