Did Philip Rivers Retire?
Philip Rivers
NFL • Also known as: The Gunslinger, Old Man Rivers
When did Philip Rivers retire?
Why did Philip Rivers retire?
Biography
Philip Michael Rivers (born December 8, 1981) is an American former professional football quarterback who played 17 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). After playing college football at NC State, Rivers was selected fourth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, who traded him to the San Diego Chargers during the draft. He played 16 seasons with the Chargers franchise, both in San Diego and Los Angeles, before finishing his career with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020.
Rivers was known for his durability, unorthodox throwing motion, and fiercely competitive nature. He holds the NFL record for most consecutive regular-season starts by a quarterback at one point with 240 games (2006-2020). His career was highlighted by eight Pro Bowl selections and leading the NFL in several statistical categories, including passing yards (2010) and passing touchdowns (2008, co-leader).
On January 20, 2021, Rivers announced his initial retirement from the NFL, finishing his career ranking fifth all-time in passing yards (63,440) and passing touchdowns (421). Since his retirement, he has served as the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama. On July 21, 2025, Rivers signed a one-day contract to officially retire as a member of the Los Angeles Chargers, who also announced plans to retire his iconic No. 17 jersey.
How old is Philip Rivers?
Philip Rivers was born on December 8, 1981. To calculate his current age, take the current year and subtract 1981. If the current date is before December 8 in the current year, subtract 1 from the result.
Why did Philip Rivers retire?
Philip Rivers retired from the NFL in January 2021 citing "it's just time" as his primary reason. Several factors influenced his decision: a desire to coach high school football (following in his father's footsteps), family considerations (spending more time with his wife and nine children), and the natural conclusion of a 17-year career. Though he played well in his final season with the Colts (leading them to an 11-5 record), Rivers felt it was the right time to step away. His ceremonial retirement with the Chargers in July 2025 was to honor his 16-year tenure with the franchise.
Teams/Organizations
- San Diego / Los Angeles Chargers (2004–2019)
- Indianapolis Colts (2020)
- St. Michael Catholic HS (AL) (2021–present, head coach)
Achievements
- 8× Pro Bowl (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2013)
- NFL passing yards leader (2010)
- NFL passing touchdowns co-leader (2008)
- NFL passer rating leader (2008)
- NFL completion percentage leader (2013)
- San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team
- ACC Athlete of the Year (2004)
- ACC Player of the Year (2003)
- NC State Wolfpack No. 17 retired
Retirement Status
Retired NFL quarterback who officially retired as a Los Angeles Charger in 2025 after playing his final season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020
