The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced a few weeks ago that Philip Rivers is a semifinalist for Class of 2026.
But the legendary quarterback might not be done yet as he was signed to the Colts practice squad on Wednesday morning.
How does that affect Rivers' potential Hall of Fame status?
According to the Hall of Fame, Rivers' candidacy would reset if he signs to the Colts active roster and appears in a game, meaning he'd have to wait five more years to become eligible. His status would not change if he remains on the practice squad.
A selection committee will next reduce the list to 15 finalists, a group that will be announced before Super Bowl LX.
Rivers was asked about his Hall of Fame status on Wednesday.
"It's a real honor to be mentioned with those other 25 guys, certainly," Rivers said. "But that's just not – I'm not holding my breath on that. And I'm not – I hadn't been counting down the years.
"I mean I – and with all respect to the Hall, and if one day I can be a part of that group, it will be special. No question about it," Rivers added. "But the extension of that time, if that comes to be, was not a factor in my thinking."
Rivers, who spent 16 seasons with the Bolts, announced his retirement as a Charger in July. He is eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for the first time.
Rivers played for the Chargers from 2004 to 2019 and then spent the 2020 season, his final one, with the Colts.
The added fun in all of this?
The Chargers and Colts are battling for a postseason spot in the AFC playoff picture.
The Bolts are currently the No. 5 seed with a 9-4 record and have a 78 percent chance to make the playoffs, according to The Athletic.
The Colts, meanwhile, are 8-5 and on the outside looking in at the moment in the eighth spot.
Get ready for a wild final month of the season that could feature Rivers trying to help the Colts secure a playoff spot in a race with his former team.
