Current NFL Status
As of the 2025 offseason, Philip Rivers is a free agent and has not signed with an NFL team for the 2025 season. He last played in the league in 2023 with the New York Jets, following seasons with the Indianapolis Colts (2020–2021) and the Chicago Bears (2022). The quarterback, known for his high football IQ and leadership, remains unsigned but has not officially announced retirement. This status clarifies where Rivers stands today and what to watch for if he chooses to return.
2023 Season with the New York Jets
Role and Performance
In 2023, Rivers joined the Jets as a veteran presence and rotational starter. He appeared in 10 games, starting four, and completed 89 of 161 passes for 892 yards, with four touchdowns and three interceptions. His experience was valued in a young locker room, though injuries and competition limited his snaps. The Jets chose not to retain him on their roster beyond the season.
- Team: New York Jets
- Games started: 4 of 10 appearances
- Completion percentage: 55.3%
- Touchdowns to interceptions: 4–3
2022 Season with the Chicago Bears
Short-Term Backup Role
Rivers signed with Chicago in 2022 as a backup to starter Justin Fields. He saw limited action, primarily in relief situations, and completed 19 of 32 passes for 179 yards with one touchdown. The Bears did not extend him after the season, leading to his free agency heading into 2023.
- Team: Chicago Bears
- Games played: 4
- Completion percentage: 59.4%
- Touchdowns: 1
2020–2021 with the Indianapolis Colts
Leadership and Starter Role
Arguably the most consistent stretch of Rivers’ late career came with the Colts. In 2020, he started 11 games after an injury to Jacoby Brissett, completing 184 of 305 passes for 2,054 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions. In 2021, he started all 17 games, posting a 73.5% completion rate for 2,347 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. His tenure provided stability and mentorship to a developing offense.
| Season | Team | Status | Games Started | Completions | Attempts | Completion % | TD–INT | Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Indianapolis Colts | Start (11) | 11 | 184 | 253 | 72.7% | 12–6 | 2,054 |
| 2021 | Indianapolis Colts | Start (17) | 17 | 243 | 330 | 73.6% | 16–7 | 2,347 |
| 2022 | Chicago Bears | Backup | 4 | 19 | 32 | 59.4% | 1–1 | 179 |
| 2023 | New York Jets | Rotational starter | 4 | 89 | 161 | 55.3% | 4–3 | 892 |
Career Overview and Playing Style
Philip Rivers is a 19-year veteran quarterback originally drafted fourth overall by the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers in 2004. Over his career, he has been known for quick decision-making, precise short-intermediate passing, and high football intelligence. He holds Chargers career records in completions, passing yards, and touchdowns, and was selected to four Pro Bowls. Despite never reaching a Super Bowl as a starter, he remained a respected veteran leader in every locker room.
What to Watch For
Until Rivers announces his next move or retirement, teams may reach out for a veteran backup or mentor role. Teams valuing leadership, such as contenders seeking depth, could be interested. Meanwhile, his free agent status means he is available to any club that offers a contract or a structured tryout. Tracking his activities in the offseason will indicate whether he pursues another playing opportunity or transitions to coaching.
Reliable Sources and Next Steps
For the most authoritative updates on Rivers’ status, monitor official NFL transactions, team beat reporters from trusted outlets, and Rivers’ verified social channels. Rumors can surface quickly, so grounding expectations in confirmed reports reduces misinformation. Fans should check back regularly if they want real-time updates on whether Rivers signs with a team or formally retires.