Fans reacted immediately after news broke about Philip Rivers ahead of the Indianapolis Colts and Seattle Seahawks game.
Indianapolis signed Rivers from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday. The move puts him in line to start Sunday in Seattle. NFL Network reported the 44-year-old is expected to get the nod, with rookie Riley Leonard backing up.
The NFL shared the update on X, writing,
“Colts will start QB Philip Rivers on Sunday at Seahawks.”
Colts will start QB Philip Rivers on Sunday at Seahawks. (via @rapsheet, @mikegarafolo, @tompelissero) pic.twitter.com/Qj7ilrsUXi
— NFL (@NFL) December 13, 2025
The reactions followed right away, with most serving as a warning that Seattle’s defense could punish Rivers.
“That defense bout to injury him,” a fan wrote.
“Colts are an absolute embarrassment! As a season ticket holder I can honestly say they’re the worst run franchise in the game. The fact that Shane and Chris truly believe this will work makes it even more comical!!” Another fan said.
“I’m prepared Nurse Joy on standby 💀,” one fan wrote.
Many fans were stunned by the decision. Rivers has not played a regular-season snap since 2020, which also came with the Colts.
“How much of the offense can he possibly learn by now? can’t wait to see how big that wrist band is going to be” a fan questioned.
“He’s gonna be retired again soon after this game” a fan raised caution.
“His 6 year old is about to have an Arya Stark moment” one fan wrote.
A win Sunday would place him alongside Tom Brady and Vinny Testaverde for wins at age 44 or older.
Just a reminder of how good Philip Rivers is 😌 @Colts
INDvsSEA– Sunday 4:25pm ET on CBS/Paramount+ pic.twitter.com/raTHMWGQVB— NFL (@NFL) December 13, 2025
The Colts enter the game short-handed. Starter Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury last week. Leonard also hurt his knee during the same loss. Rivers’ presence, though, has brought energy to the locker room.
Sunday presents a tough matchup. Seattle owns the league’s fourth-ranked run defense. Jonathan Taylor faces a unit that has not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 22 straight games. The Colts are also missing right tackle Braden Smith and cornerback Charvarius Ward. With injuries piling up, Indianapolis is searching for momentum.
With Rivers’ return, the story has already grabbed attention. Fans, players, and coaches are watching closely. The sight of Rivers back under center would mark one of the season’s most unexpected moments.
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