NFL News: Philip Rivers throws TD pass for first time in nearly 5 years

Philip Rivers was back on the scoreboard as the Indianapolis Colts quarterback threw a touchdown pass in the first half against the Seattle Seahawks.

Rivers had gone 1,800 days without throwing a touchdown pass. The last of his career came in the 2020 playoffs against the Buffalo Bills on January 9, 2021. He threw two touchdown passes that day, but the Colts lost and were eliminated from the playoffs.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON Pakinomist

It was believed to be the last time Rivers would be on a football field in a professional capacity until the Colts came calling. Indianapolis signed Rivers and started him Sunday.

He threw a touchdown pass to Josh Downs in the second quarter as the Colts led 13–6 at halftime. Rivers was 10-of-16 with 82 passing yards. His longest completion of the half was 17 yards to Tyler Warren.

BILLS END PATRIOTS’ 10-GAME WINTER STREAK AFTER ERASERING 21-POINT SEAL IN AFC EAST THRILLER

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Rivers’ comeback story has been nothing short of amazing. That he even has the ability to shift gears and feel comfortable being back on the field is an achievement in itself.

The Colts were hoping Rivers would be able to keep Indianapolis afloat in the playoff race after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tear last week. Indianapolis has lost three in a row against Seattle and four of its last five.

Bundle FOX One and FOX Nation to stream the entire FOX Nation library plus live FOX News, Sports and Entertainment at the lowest price of the year. The offer ends on 4 January 2026. (Fox One; Fox Nation)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE Pakinomist APP

The 44-year-old quarterback has 63,440 passing yards and 421 passing touchdowns in his career. He spent 16 of his 17 seasons with the Chargers organization.