Andrew Luck Leaves No Doubt About His Decision on a Colts Return

“Zero,” Luck said, acknowledging Indianapolis never called him. “So, I had zero chances to say no.”

Luck described how he would have responded if the team had reached out, making clear his retirement remains definitive.

“No, thank you,” Luck said. “I’m right where I’m supposed to be.”

Luck retired in 2019 after a series of injuries and years of physical and mental strain, and he's repeatedly said that stepping away allowed him to regain some balance in his life.

Luck, however, had words of praise for Rivers, whom the Colts ultimately brought back from retirement to man their starting QB role. He noted growing up admiring the longtime Chargers quarterback and appreciated seeing him compete again.

“Philip Rivers was a hero of mine growing up,” Luck said. “And for him to still go out there and be able to sling it like he does, and not just sling it, but with the authenticity, and leadership, and positive effect that he does bring, because that certainly jumps through the TV screen, or a tiny little phone, or whatever you’re watching on.”

Rivers rejoined the Colts last week after nearly five years away and nearly led the team to an upset against the Seattle Seahawks, ultimately losing 18-16.

Indianapolis will continue through the final stretch of the schedule with a matchup against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football, kick-off set for 8:15 p.m. ET.