The comeback story of Philip Rivers might not be done just yet.
His playing career is over once again, as the potential future Hall of Famer steps aside on Sunday with rookie quarterback Riley Leonard set to start the Colts' final game of the season after they were eliminated from playoff contention last week.
But there is a real chance Rivers is a figure in the NFL for years to come.
Several sources say Rivers could end up as a head coach candidate this cycle and the current belief is that Rivers gets at least one opportunity to interview, possibly more. Only two teams currently have head coach openings -- the New York Giants and Tennessee Titans -- though that number is expected to grow after Sunday.
Sources say that teams have been doing research on Rivers as a candidate and making background calls. That happened last year, as well. Rivers previously has never been willing to engage -- not with college or NFL teams -- but his dramatic return to the NFL in December might have sparked his interest.
All of this might sound crazy. But is it crazier than a 44-year-old QB returning to the NFL midseason after a four-plus year hiatus?
While interest is likely, it's no guarantee Rivers takes an interview.
One of the smartest QBs around, Rivers is already a successful high school coach, building the program at St. Michael Catholic in Fairhope, Ala., and twice leading them to the state semifinals. Could he turn that into an NFL job?
Rivers was a feel-good story this year, even though he went 0-3 as a starter for the Colts. His return also introduced him to an entirely new generation of players and reestablished some of his NFL connections.
The belief is he could bring in a strong staff, based on his relationships.
On the Up & Adams Show this week, Rivers was asked about a potential career in broadcasting, and he made an interesting reference.
"I've not ruled it out," Rivers said. "But every opportunity that's been close to coming or has come up just hasn't felt right. ... The one thing I've loved since I was however old playing this game and being now as a coach is I've been able to have some impact on the score. You might be good at it, talking about it, but I have nothing to do with the outcome of this game."
Becoming head coach would be a good way to impact the outcome of a game.
