Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has officially announced his retirement from professional football after a notable career that spanned over 16 seasons, primarily with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers. Rivers, who last played in the 2020 season, took to social media to declare his retirement, stating, 'I'm Philip Rivers, quarterback, and I'm retiring a Charger.' This statement highlights his association with the Chargers, despite finishing his career with the Indianapolis Colts.

The announcement comes after years of discussions between Rivers and Chargers president of football operations, John Spanos. In a conversation shared on the team's official website, Spanos expressed gratitude on behalf of the franchise, emphasizing the importance of Rivers to the team and its fan base. He noted that both parties were aware that this day would eventually arrive, and he had wanted to ensure that the timing of Rivers' retirement was right for him.

Rivers, currently the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, is best remembered for his stellar performance with the Chargers. Drafted as the No. 4 pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, he quickly established himself as the team's starting quarterback, leading them to a remarkable 14-2 record in his third season and earning the first of eight Pro Bowl selections. Throughout his tenure, Rivers set multiple franchise records, finishing as the team leader in passing yards, touchdowns, and completions, while also maintaining a streak of 224 consecutive starts. His impressive career statistics place him among the top quarterbacks in NFL history, as he ranks eighth in completions, sixth in passing yards, and sixth in passing touchdowns, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.