Philip Rivers won't rule out late-season return to NFL

Don't rule out a potential Philip Rivers return to the NFL just yet.

The retired quarterback, who ended his 17-year career in January, isn't closing the door on potentially coming back to the league late in the season if a team needs him, he told Los Angeles Times's Sam Farmer.

"I'm just going to stay ready," the 39-year-old said. "I want to make sure I'm very clear: I'm not predicting I will play in December or January, for that matter. One, you've got to have somebody who wants you, and two, it's got to be right.

"But I have not completely ruled that out."

Rivers added he's currently focused on coaching a high school football team in Alabama after taking over the job last month.

The former fourth overall pick last played in the NFL for the Indianapolis Colts, who naturally would be linked to Rivers if he returns. However, the Colts would likely need a veteran starting signal-caller to step up sooner rather than later, as the club recently saw Carson Wentz go down with a foot injury. Wentz underwent surgery Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined 5-to-12 weeks.

Rivers posted an 11-5 record while throwing for 4,169 yards and 24 touchdowns against 11 interceptions with Indianapolis last campaign.

The nine-time Pro Bowler played the majority of his career for the Los Angeles Chargers after entering the league in 2004, and he's their franchise's leader in games played, passing yards, and touchdowns.

Rivers currently places fifth all-time in career passing yards (63,440) and touchdown passes (421).