Philip Rivers to Retire
Philip Rivers drops back against the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wildcard game January 9
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indianapolis Colts are searching for a new starting quarterback after Philip Rivers announced he is retiring from the NFL, according to a story first reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune. Rivers came to Indianapolis a year ago after spending 16 seasons with the Chargers in San Diego and Los Angeles.
“It’s just time,” Rivers told the Union-Tribune late Tuesday night from his Indianapolis home. “It’s just right.”
Rivers played in 244 games, including 240 in a row, which is the second-longest streak in league history behind Brett Favre’s 297. The 39-year old finishes his career fifth in all-time passing yards with 63,440 and 421 touchdown passes.
Rivers led the Colts to an 11-5 record this season after throwing for over 4,000 yards for the eighth consecutive season and 12 times total in his career. Rivers and the Colts ended their season on January 9 with a 27-24 loss to the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wild Card game.
“Without question, Philip Rivers is one of the greatest, and no doubt one of the toughest, players to ever play this game,” Colts owner Jim Irsay said. “For 16 years wearing Chargers blue, Philip gave the Colts fits, but he was a wonder to watch because of his skill at the quarterback position, as well as his undeniable love for the game. Even though he wore the Horseshoe for only one season, it was a season to remember, and we were fortunate to have his leadership and passion in our building for this part of our climb. We wish Philip the best in his retirement, and we will join fans in San Diego and Los Angeles in saluting him as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday soon.”
The Decatur, Alabama native has already agreed to be the head football coach of St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, a decision he announced in May of this year.
“I can sit here and say, ‘I can still throw it. I love to play,’ ” Rivers told the Union-Tribune. “But that’s always going to be there. I’m excited to go coach high school football.”