The Indianapolis Colts found themselves in a strong playoff position earlier this season, but recent events have shifted that optimistic outlook dramatically. Daniel Jones, the starting quarterback, suffered a torn Achilles last week, while rookie Riley Leonard, drafted in the sixth round, has yet to step onto the field as a starter.In light of these challenges, the team made the bold decision to sign 44-year-old Philip Rivers, a move that has stirred a variety of opinions. Alex Smith stands firmly in favor, asserting that Rivers represents the best choice the Colts could make in this scenario.
A month ago, the Colts boasted a record of 7-2, sitting comfortably atop the AFC standings. Their confidence was high enough that they traded several draft picks to secure Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets. Since that bold move, however, their performance has plummeted to 1-3.With Jones now sidelined, Rivers steps in to take the helm of this struggling squad.
The landscape has changed significantly, yet Indianapolis now has a seasoned leader at the forefront who could guide them back to the playoffs and perhaps even make a deep run. Smith shares this belief as well.
“This is a bold move. I think it has a real chance,” Smith expressed on NFL on ESPN. “This gives them the best opportunity to not only win this game but potentially make the playoffs.”
“This gives them the best opportunity to not only win this game but maybe make the playoffs.”
Alex Smith on Philip Rivers returning for the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15 pic.twitter.com/J8NOTkbe8t
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 14, 2025
Currently, the Colts stand at 8-5, positioned in 8th place within the AFC. The Jacksonville Jaguars are riding high with four consecutive wins, while the Houston Texans have claimed five straight victories. With these division rivals gaining momentum, Indianapolis finds itself slipping further away from a playoff spot.
Upcoming games will not be kind to the Colts. Today, they face the formidable Seattle Seahawks on the road, marking Rivers’ first start since 2020. Following this challenge, they will play against the San Francisco 49ers, then face off with the Jaguars and Texans to end the season.
This isn’t the ideal schedule for a veteran making a comeback after five years. However, Rivers has experience in high-pressure situations. Relying on someone like Riley Leonard, who is yet to start a game in the NFL, could have been catastrophic for the Colts’ season.
Overall, Smith’s analysis holds merit. Rivers does indeed provide Indianapolis with a fighting chance to make the playoffs. That said, the odds are slim. The Colts could easily end the season on a sour note. If they falter now, finishing with an 8-9 record could become a reality.
Kudos to the Colts for taking action, but this move screams desperation. Best of luck to Indianapolis and the seasoned Rivers today; they are going to need every bit of it.
