"Riley Leonard worked with him before draft": Ex-NFL HC Eric Mangini shares eye-opening take on why Colts signed Philip Rivers out of retirement

The Indianapolis Colts signed Philip Rivers to their practice squad on Tuesday, pulling the quarterback out of retirement. The move came after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Former NFL coach Eric Mangini shared his thoughts about the Colts' QB situation.

"This is an organizational Hail Mary, and that's where the Colts are at this point," Mangini said on Tuesday, via "First Things First." "They didn't expect to be as good as they were, I don't think, with Daniel Jones, and then they suddenly had the lead in the division.

"This could be so Riley Leonard went and worked with Philip Rivers prior to the draft. He actually talks all about it. Maybe they bring Philip and he's on the practice squad, help coach him up a little bit. But there is a, there is a relationship between those two guys, maybe, maybe that's part of it."

Riley Leonard reportedly trained with Rivers before the 2025 draft, visiting the veteran's home and his practice facility in its backyard. The backup quarterback revealed that the biggest lesson he got from the eight-time Pro Bowler was how paid attention to all details.

Rivers spent 16 of his 17 NFL seasons with the San Diego/LA Chargers. He last played for Indianapolis in 2020 after LA did not re-sign him. He threw for 4,169 yards, 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, leading the team to an 11-5 record.

Rivers announced his retirement after the season. He signed a one-day contract in July to conclude his career with the organization. Rivers became the coach of St. Michael Catholic School and led the program to a 13-1 regular season record.

If he'll be activated from the practice squad to the active roster, his Hall of Fame eligibility clock would reset. Rivers' potential induction will move from 2026 to 2031. However, remaining on the practice squad would not affect his eligibility for the 2026 class.

Colts HC's role in Philip Rivers' signing

Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen’s relationship with Philip Rivers played a major role in the team signing the veteran quarterback again. Steichen previously worked with Rivers as the offensive coordinator of the Chargers.

The Colts lost Daniel Jones to a torn Achilles, while Riley Leonard suffered a knee injury. The backup quarterback might not be able to suit up in Week 15 versus the Seattle Seahawks.