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Colts' Rookie Riley Leonard Shines in First NFL Start

1/6/2026

Summary

Leonard's NFL Debut

Riley Leonard, the Colts’ sixth-round pick, made his first NFL start on January 4, 2026, against the Houston Texans.
He threw a 66-yard touchdown to Alec Pierce early in the game.
Leonard finished 21 of 34 passes for 270 yards and added a rushing touchdown.
The Colts were eliminated from playoff contention after relying on veteran Philip Rivers, who retired after the season.

Summary

Rivers Transitioning to Coaching

Philip Rivers, 44, may shift from player to coach after unretiring to assist the Indianapolis Colts this season.
Multiple NFL teams, including the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants, are interested in interviewing him for head coaching roles.
Rivers played three games this season, recording four touchdowns and three interceptions, before backing up rookie Riley Leonard in the finale against the Houston Texans.
He previously coached at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama and aims to influence game outcomes rather than enter media.

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Leonard's NFL Debut

Riley Leonard, the Colts’ sixth-round pick, made his first NFL start on January 4, 2026, against the Houston Texans.
He threw a 66-yard touchdown to Alec Pierce early in the game.
Leonard finished 21 of 34 passes for 270 yards and added a rushing touchdown.
The Colts were eliminated from playoff contention after relying on veteran Philip Rivers, who retired after the season.

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