The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly looking to upgrade at quarterback this off-season.
The NFL free agency has kicked off and the Colts are taking a look at veteran quarterback Philip Rivers.
The Colts have been linked to Rivers for a few weeks, so it’s not surprising to see the two sides discussing a possible deal.
It’s unclear at the moment what kind of contract offer Indy would give Rivers, but we’ll see if the discussions go any further.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Colts are currently talking with Rivers about a contract.
The #Colts have had discussions with free agent QB Philip Rivers, source said. And while nothing is done, he’s a clear target for Indy. We shall see if they can agree on the money.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 16, 2020
How Did Rivers Perform in 2019?
The eight-time Pro Bowler didn’t exactly have the best season on paper in 2019.
Rivers threw for 4,615 passing yards with 23 touchdowns and 20 interceptions through 16 games with the Chargers.
It was the second-most interceptions he has thrown since 2016 where he threw 21 picks.
His completion percentage was at 66% in 2019 and his career average is 64.7% through 16 seasons.
Rivers has also surpassed 4,000 passing yards in every season since 2007.
The Chargers went 5-11 last season, but that wasn’t all on Rivers.
The interceptions were obviously an issue, but Rivers has been reliable in every other area.
Would Rivers Fit in Indy?
The 38-year-old quarterback has spent each of the last 16 seasons with the Chargers.
Both sides decided to part ways this summer.
Rivers is not getting any younger, but he remains fairly reliable for a veteran quarterback.
He hasn’t missed a game in 14 straight seasons, so the Colts should be able to count on him to stay healthy.
It wouldn’t be a long-term commitment, so the Colts could go out and get someone else after one or two seasons.
Rivers has played in 11 playoff games and having playoff experience is a huge plus for the Colts.
PHILIP RIVERS H.O.F. WORTHY?
Career Stats:
Yards- 59,271
Touchdowns-397
INT- 198
QB Rating -95.1— The Spread (@SHIZZ_U) February 11, 2020
What Kind of Deal Should They Give Rivers?
Bringing in Rivers would obviously not be a long-term solution to the Colts current issues at quarterback.
Jacoby Brissett signed a two-year extension with the Colts in 2019.
Rivers is going to start if the Colts bring him in, so Brissett would either be traded or become the second-string quarterback.
It’s unlikely that the Colts would give Rivers more than a three-year deal.
There are no reported contract offers, but a two or three-year deal could be a possibility.
Why Bother with Rivers?
Yes, Rivers is an older quarterback and has thrown almost 200 career interceptions.
However, he has also played in 11 career playoff games throughout his career.
Brissett lacks playoff experience and the Colts don’t have time to waste during their competitive window.
Rivers is 5-6 during his 11 playoff games and does not have a Super Bowl ring.
Although, he is one of the most experienced quarterbacks available next to Tom Brady.
The rise in interceptions is obviously a concern, but Rivers appears to have something left in the tank.
Possibly, a change of scenery could do him some good.
Philip Rivers will be entering free agency after 16 seasons with the #Chargers.
Stats through 16 seasons:
🟦Games played: 228
🟨Pass completion %: 64.7%
🟦Passing Yds: 59,271
🟨Passing TDs: 397
🟦INT: 198🥶
🟨QBR: 95.1
🟦Game winning drives: 32#BoltUp #MST pic.twitter.com/4HZZo7yH3J— Major Sports Talk (@mjr_sportstalk) February 10, 2020
Brissett struggled heavily in the second half of the season, so who knows what you’re going to get with him.
The Colts know they will roughly get 25-30 touchdowns and 4,000 passing yards or more from Rivers.
There aren’t many details on the Colts current discussions with Rivers, but if the years and money make sense, then this could be a solid move for the organization.
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