The NFC playoff race is heating up, and the 49ers hold a 9-4 record heading into Week 15.

San Francisco’s last regular-season road game will be played against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16, who could have a new-yet-familiar face under center. Indianapolis made waves recently after signing retired 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to its practice squad.

George Kittle spoke to the media in the 49ers’ locker room on Thursday about the Colts’ recent decision to sign Rivers after Daniel Jones tore his Achilles in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“I’m a huge fan of Philip Rivers, I love that he doesn’t swear,” he jokingly admitted, “Just having him in the building is probably great for the Colts because he is a legend.”

Kittle also referenced Rivers’ previous experience playing for Indianapolis back in 2020. 

“He was there for a little bit too and all the guys are probably excited to see him,” Kittle said, “Just bring a little life and energy and maybe his leadership into there.”

Rivers’ only season with the Colts finished with a 11-5 record in 16 games started. He spent the previous 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and announced his retirement from football in Jan. 2021.

“I have no expectations, I have no idea what he’s going to do out there,” Kittle told reporters, “But, you know, they called him for a reason and he said yes for the reason he believes he can still play at a high level.”

Kittle is no stranger to changing quarterbacks’ midseason and acknowledged the immense blow the Colts’ suffered in losing Jones.

“It’s horrible what happened to Daniel Jones, he’s having a fantastic year,” Kittle said.

Two days in now, and my time in the building this week has left me only MORE convinced Philip Rivers is this week’s starting quarterback.

It isn’t difficult to tell who a team is prepping to start. That player is Rivers. Period. https://t.co/Q38bfZjZ11

— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) December 11, 2025

The 49ers could get a look at Rivers in his first game coming out of retirement if he suits up on Sunday against the Seahawks. 

“If [Rivers] thinks he can play, then man, he’s a really good quarterback.,” Kittle said.

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