FOXBORO — Drake Maye knew that Philip Rivers could still sling the rock even before the 44-year-old quarterback made his return to football this week with the Colts.
Maye worked out with Rivers before the 2024 NFL Draft. Rivers has been retired since 2020 and made his comeback this week after Colts starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles.
“I think it’s awesome. I think it’s pretty cool. When we were down there — I did draft training in Mobile, and he lives around there somewhere — I think the biggest thing is he still throws it good. That was two springs ago. He was slinging it good. So, what a quarterback, what a competitor. He’s the ultimate competitor. And I’m sure he knows the offense well, and I’m sure still slings in great. Saw a little bit of his press conference. That was pretty funny. Seemed like a great guy when I was around. He’s been great to me. So, it’s pretty cool, something like that, whatever happens there. But it’s
pretty sweet.”
Rivers officially signed to the Colts’ practice squad Wednesday. He’s also on a semi-finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. If Rivers signs to the Colts’ 53-man roster, then he would have to wait five more years for enshrinement.
Maye was asked if he’s still going to be playing when he’s 44 years old.
“Shoot, if I’m moving around a little bit still, I hope so,” Maye said. “I’ll play as long as I can.”
Patriots fans would probably take that after seeing the team’s lack of success in the post-Brady, pre-Maye era. If Maye plays until he’s 44, that would mean he’s still suiting up in the year 2046.
The Colts are 8-5 and currently out of the playoff picture. Their backup, Anthony Richardson, is on injured reserve with an orbital fracture. Third-stringer Riley Leonard is dealing with a knee injury.
