Report: Colts sign free agent QB Philip Rivers

The Indianapolis Colts have signed former Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Rivers agreed to terms on a one-year deal, with Ian Rapoport reporting it is for approximately $25 million.

Rivers had one of his worst seasons in 2019, his 16th year in the league, as he threw just 23 touchdowns to 20 interceptions. The touchdown numbers were his lowest since his second year as a starter in 2007, but his interceptions weren’t exactly that odd, as he’s hit 15 or more interceptions in six different seasons.

Last year, the Colts gave Jacoby Brissett a new two-year contract worth $30 million, which included $20 million guaranteed, but his play toward the end of last season was a big reason the Colts didn’t make the playoffs. In his last nine games Brissett completed just 57.3 percent of his passes for an average of 172 yards while producing four passing touchdowns and three interceptions.

The team went run heavy, but the lack of even an average passing game hurt, as they went 3-6 in his last nine games of the season. Rivers might not be the answer but Brissett is likely a good backup versus a starter who is able to take his team deep in the playoffs. Rivers will have T.Y. Hilton to throw to but the Colts aren’t stacked with receivers. The best thing for Rivers will be the upgrade in offensive line, which has more often than not been a problem for the Chargers.

The Chargers are currently in on Tom Brady, but if they don’t land him, their options thin out fairly quickly.