Colts HC Frank Reich Reportedly Reaching Out To Retired QB Philip Rivers

The Colts are reportedly digging through the retirement market for another quarterback, albeit, a familiar face.

According to The Athletic's Zak Keefer, Colts head coach Frank Reich has had discussions with Philip Rivers.

The 40-year-old retired at the end of last season after 17 years in the NFL. The last came in 2020 under Reich, a season in which Rivers led the Colts to an 11-5 record. The Colts (9-6) have the Raiders (8-7) next on their docket, a pivotal game for both teams' playoff aspirations.

Quarterback Carson Wentz, who is unvaccinated, tested positive for COVID-19 Tuesday and is at risk of missing the game on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. With the NFL updating its COVID-19 protocols, however, Wentz has a better chance of returning. The new protocols allow players who test positive regardless of vaccination status to return to action after just five days instead of 10, as long as they remain asymptomatic.

As Keefer noted, there is currently no inclination that a deal between Rivers and the Colts will come to fruition. If that is the case, Sam Ehlinger is expected to be the starter. Ehlinger was the Colts' 2021 sixth-round selection out of Texas.

The Saints faced a similar predicament Monday night against the Dolphins, working without quarterbacks Taysom Hill and Trevor Siemian due to COVID-19. Ian Book, their 2021 fourth-round selection out of Notre Dame, was thrust into action.

As OutKick's Glenn Guilbeau relayed, the Saints tried to coax Drew Brees out of retirement to suit up once again. The 42-year-old did not oblige and the Saints trotted out Book under center. New Orleans lost 20-3, with Book being sacked eight times.


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Nick Geddes is a 2021 graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. A life-long sports enthusiast, Nick shares a passion for sports writing and is proud to represent OutKick.