Philip Rivers Signs Ceremonial Contract to Bypass Waivers in July 2025
In July 2025, Philip Rivers signed a ceremonial contract with the Los Angeles Chargers, allowing him to retire with the team. This move, however, did not have any impact on his potential signing with the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad.
Understanding the Ceremonial Contract
The contract was not an official agreement. Rather, it served a symbolic purpose, enabling Rivers to retire as a charger. At the time, the Chargers had a full roster of 90 players under contract.
Impact on Signing with the Colts
Had the contract been legitimate, Rivers would have been placed on the reserve/retired list. This would have complicated his ability to join the Colts later.
- If Rivers had not been released from the reserve list before the trade deadline, he would need to pass through waivers.
- Though it’s unlikely any team would claim him, this process would have delayed his signing with the Colts.
The waiver process could have been a hindrance. The Chargers might have chosen to retain him, particularly as they compete for a Wild Card spot. This scenario could have hindered Rivers from fulfilling a pressing need for the Colts at the quarterback position.
Conclusion
Philip Rivers’ ceremonial contract with the Chargers marks an important chapter in his career. While it offers a nostalgic farewell, its implications on his signing with the Colts were minimal. The landscape of the NFL remains competitive, and player movements can greatly impact team dynamics.
