"In July, former quarterback Philip Rivers was asked if he could still play an NFL game, during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. "Oh yeah. I'm a little heavier than I was, but I could get through a game," Rivers replied, adding with a laugh. "Now, I may need a wheelchair the next morning." But now the sports world is absorbing the news that Rivers, a grandfather at age 44, has signed a practice contract with the Indianapolis Colts."
"But what Rivers does have, Wickersham says, is a very particular set of skills. "Against, you know, all logic, sanity and reason, the NFL has kind of become an old man's game for quarterbacks." For one thing, veterans like Rivers have proven they can quickly understand game situations. And today's quarterbacks don't get hit as much, if they stay in the pocket rather than scramble around."
Philip Rivers indicated in July that he could still play an NFL game despite being heavier and joked he might need a wheelchair the next morning. Rivers, age 44 and a grandfather, signed a practice contract with the Indianapolis Colts after starter Daniel Jones sustained a season-ending injury, jeopardizing the team's playoff hopes. The NFL increasingly accommodates veteran quarterbacks who possess strong situational understanding and who can remain in the pocket to avoid hits. Similar circumstances allowed 40-something Joe Flacco to return this season to help the Cincinnati Bengals. Rivers and his wife Tiffany have ten children, and Rivers has eight Pro Bowl appearances.
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