Philip Rivers Trade Rumors: Chargers Reportedly Won't Trade Star QB

Philip Rivers is reportedly staying put in San Diego.

Rumors have circulated regarding the Chargers quarterback as the draft approaches, but Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego noted Thursday: "We can officially move on. Philip Rivers has been told by the Chargers he won't be traded. Extension talks ongoing.".   

Joel Corry of CBS Sports reported on what the cap hit would be for the Chargers in 2016 if they place the franchise tag him:

The 33-year-old Rivers is still one of the most productive quarterbacks in the league and posted 4,286 passing yards and 31 touchdowns for the Chargers in the 2014 season. The five-time Pro Bowler is a sure thing, which made the prospect of trading him risky, especially if it was to move up in the draft for the likes of Oregon's Marcus Mariota or another unproven rookie

Peter King of Sports Illustrated suggested as much:

"

San Diego definitely does not want to trade Rivers, and I believe the Chargers have never been told Rivers won’t sign a contract in San Diego beyond this year—though he does not want to currently. I believe Tennessee would want more than the 33-year-old quarterback for the second pick in the draft, and if I’m San Diego GM Tom Telesco, I’m not willing to offer any more. Rivers is a sure thing, for three to five years anyway. Marcus Mariota is 12 years younger, but is not a sure thing.

"

The Chargers were 9-7 last season and will likely be in win-now mode in 2015.

San Diego signed wide receiver Stevie Johnson, wide receiver/kick returner Jacoby Jones and guard Orlando Franklin in the offseason and brought back cornerback Brandon Flowers and left tackle King Dunlap. Trading away the quarterback would put the Chargers on a rebuilding path that wouldn't necessarily follow the pattern of those offseason moves.

Even with San Diego keeping Rivers, don't be surprised if it makes some moves in the draft. The Chargers were 26th in the league against the run last year and need reinforcements and depth along the defensive front. They could also make a push for one of the running backs in the draft since Ryan Mathews joined the Philadelphia Eagles. 

With Rivers under center, the Chargers have the talent to contend for an AFC West crown or at least a wild-card spot in this year's playoffs. Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos still stand in the way, but Rivers provides stability and veteran leadership.

San Diego apparently doesn't want to trade that away.