Philip Rivers Reportedly Eyed as NFL HC After Historic Return to Colts from Retirement

After making an unexpected comeback to the NFL, quarterback Philip Rivers "could end up as a head coach candidate" this offseason, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Rapoport reported that "teams have been doing research on Rivers as a candidate and making background calls." The eight-time Pro Bowler could get at least one formal interview.

Nobody foresaw Rivers playing again after a four-year hiatus. Still, his hiring as an NFL head coach would arguably be a bigger surprise.

The 44-year-old has a wealth of playing experience, and his current run has familiarized him with the league all over again.

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"The belief is he could bring in a strong staff, based on his relationships," per Rapoport.

Former San Diego Chargers teammate Shawne Merriman offered an endorsement:

Still, Rivers' credentials as a coach are limited to high school. While he has done reasonably well at St. Michael Catholic in Alabama, it goes without saying that the NFL would be a massive step up.

The Colts basically tried this experiment when they appointed retired center Jeff Saturday as their interim replacement for Frank Reich in 2022. They went 1-7 and hired Shane Steichen the following offseason.

Rivers told Kay Adams this week he'd entertain a pivot to broadcasting if the right opportunity presents itself. He said he much preferred coaching, though, as he can influence games from the sideline:

Maybe a pathway into the NFL coaching ranks opens during the upcoming hiring cycle.

Jumping right into the top job would probably be a bridge too far. Becoming a quarterbacks coach or offensive coordinator would allow for Rivers to have a more gradual adjustment to working at this level.