Colts QB Philip Rivers considered retirement before free agency

New Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers wasn't necessarily always intent on playing football in 2020.

The veteran QB signed a one-year deal with the Colts last week for a guaranteed $25 million, but he revealed over the weekend that he pondered retirement before entering free agency. 

"I think really where we settled in is I still love to play, certainly not coming off my best year [in 2019], but I know I still can play at a high level," Rivers said on a conference call with reporters over the weekend, according to NFL.com's Adam Maya. "... It was one of those deals where we said if there's nothing else out there then that'll be our answer. I don't want to just try to hang on to play."

The 38-year-old was interested in reuniting with Colts head coach Frank Reich and offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni, who both coached Rivers with the Chargers, in Indianapolis, and that was part of the reason he decided to sign with Indy. Under a combination of Reich and Sirianni in San Diego, Rivers averaged 30 touchdowns and 15.5 interceptions per season.

While Rivers may not be looking to play into his 40s, he did say if he performs well it may prolong his stay in Indy.

"I take it one year at a time," Rivers said. "If I feel good, I'll keep going. I don't want to get carried away. You won't see me in the Tom Brady (age) range. I still feel like I can help a football team go win a championship."

Jacoby Brissett was the starter last season after Andrew Luck's abrupt retirement, but the Colts will likely roll with Rivers through the 2020 campaign.

After a 2019 season with 23 touchdowns and 20 interceptions, Rivers hopes for a fresh start behind one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.