Philip Rivers has announced his retirement from the NFL, officially bringing an end to a career that has not seen him play since the 2020 season. In a social media post, Rivers declared, "I'm Philip Rivers, quarterback, and I'm retiring a Charger," emphasizing his desire to retire as a member of the team with which he is most closely associated, despite having spent his final season with the Indianapolis Colts.

The announcement was long anticipated, as reflected in comments from Chargers president of football operations, John Spanos. He shared that discussions regarding Rivers' retirement had taken place over the past several years. Spanos expressed gratitude on behalf of the organization for Rivers' contributions to the franchise and acknowledged the quarterback's wish to retire as a Charger. He noted, "I think we both knew this day was coming for a few years now, but the key thing that I expressed to Philip was that I wanted the timing to be something he was good with. He had to be ready to close that door."

Accompanying the announcement was a video showcasing notable moments from Rivers' career with the Chargers, as well as reflections from former offensive linemen Nick Hardwick, Kris Dielman, Marcus McNeill, and Jeromey Clary, who surprised Rivers during the broadcast. Rivers, who currently serves as the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, enjoyed a prolific NFL career, highlighted by 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers. He was selected as the No. 4 pick in the 2004 NFL Draft and became the team's full-time starter in his third season, leading the Chargers to a remarkable 14-2 record and earning his first of eight Pro Bowl selections. Over his career, he displayed remarkable consistency, starting in 224 consecutive games and guiding the franchise to four consecutive AFC West division titles during his initial four years as a starter.

Rivers led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2008 and finished atop the league in passing yards in 2010. By the conclusion of his tenure with the Chargers, Rivers had compiled an impressive career passing record of 64.7 percent completion, amassing 59,271 passing yards, 397 touchdowns, and 198 interceptions. He holds multiple franchise records for the Chargers, including the most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and completions. His significant contributions have solidified his legacy within the organization, and he is considered a candidate for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In NFL history, Rivers ranks eighth in completions, sixth in both passing yards and touchdowns, defining a significant era for the Chargers.