Indianapolis, IN, December 10, 2025
In a crucial development for the Indianapolis Colts, the team signed retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad following injuries to starters Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard. This strategic move aims to bolster their quarterback lineup as the NFL reaches Week 15. Meanwhile, DK Metcalf’s return for the Steelers and Ben Cleveland’s suspension for the Ravens highlight ongoing challenges faced by teams. Player safety measures are also being enhanced with new playing surface standards introduced by the NFL.
Indianapolis, IN – NFL Week 15 Updates
Colts Reinvent Their Quarterback Strategy as Season Progresses
As the NFL season advances into Week 15, the Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move by signing 44-year-old retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad. This decision comes in light of injuries to their starting quarterback Daniel Jones, who is facing a torn Achilles tendon, and backup Riley Leonard, who has suffered a knee injury. With Rivers having previously retired in 2020 and still possessing valuable experience, the Colts are hoping that his prior coaching relationship with head coach Shane Steichen will facilitate a smoother integration.
Health Concerns Tackle Steelers’ Metcalf but Hope Remains
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf is set to return for the crucial Monday Night Football game against the Miami Dolphins, despite experiencing health complications after a hit during their recent game against the Baltimore Ravens. Metcalf was hospitalized for evaluation due to worsening stomach pain but returned to the team, showing resilience that underscores the determination seen throughout the NFL.
Ravens’ Ben Cleveland Faces Discipline Amid Suspension
In troubling news for the Baltimore Ravens, offensive lineman Ben Cleveland has been suspended for three games due to a violation of the NFL’s substances of abuse policy. This suspension will sideline him for critical matchups, including contests against the Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, and Green Bay Packers, as the Ravens prepare for the final stretch of the season.
Enhancements in Player Safety: NFL’s New Playing Surface Standards
In a proactive approach to player safety, the NFL has announced that all stadiums must comply with new enhanced playing surface standards by the 2028 season. These standards, which will apply to grass, synthetic, and hybrid fields, aim to minimize injuries and ensure the well-being of athletes. Teams will receive a list of approved surfaces and have two years to comply, reflecting a commitment to creating safer playing environments.
Injury Updates for Week 15
- Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Carter: The defensive tackle will miss Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers due to a recent shoulder procedure. He is listed as week-to-week but opted for the procedure now to recover in time for the Eagles’ playoff run.
- Washington Commanders’ Zach Ertz: The tight end is out for the rest of the season with a torn ACL, confirmed after Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
- New York Giants’ Malik Nabers: The wide receiver is expected to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite a groin injury.
Upcoming Key Matchups in Week 15
- New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills: A victory over Buffalo will give the Patriots their 22nd division title since the 1970 season, marking their first since 2019.
- Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs: Both teams are tied at 7-6, making this a crucial AFC West showdown.
As Week 15 progresses, teams are navigating injuries and strategic decisions that will significantly impact the remainder of the season. The blend of former star talent and rising potential in both players and teams enhances the excitement of the upcoming games.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Colts signing Philip Rivers?
The Indianapolis Colts signed 44-year-old retired quarterback Philip Rivers to their practice squad after starting quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a torn Achilles tendon, and backup Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury during a recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rivers’ familiarity with Colts coach Shane Steichen from their time with the Chargers is expected to aid in a quicker transition.
Why was Ravens’ Ben Cleveland suspended?
Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Ben Cleveland was suspended for three games without pay due to a violation of the NFL’s substances of abuse policy. The suspension will sideline Cleveland for the team’s contests against the Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, and Green Bay Packers in Weeks 15 through 17. He will be eligible to return for the season finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
What are the new NFL playing surface standards?
The NFL has announced that by the 2028 season, all stadiums must meet new enhanced playing surface standards aimed at improving player safety. These standards, developed and verified through extensive lab and field testing, will apply to grass, synthetic, and hybrid fields. Each team will receive an approved list of compliant fields, and any new surfaces installed must meet these criteria. Teams will have two years to ensure compliance.
Which key matchups are scheduled for Week 15?
Key matchups in Week 15 include the New England Patriots facing the Buffalo Bills, where a victory will give the Patriots their 22nd division title since the 1970 season, marking their first since 2019. Additionally, the Los Angeles Chargers will play against the Kansas City Chiefs, with both teams tied at 7-6, making this a crucial AFC West showdown.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Colts Sign Philip Rivers | After injuries to quarterbacks Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard, the Colts signed retired QB Philip Rivers to their practice squad. |
| Steelers’ DK Metcalf Health Update | Despite a recent health scare, Steelers WR DK Metcalf is expected to play in the Week 15 Monday Night Football game against the Miami Dolphins. |
| Ravens’ Ben Cleveland Suspension | Ravens OL Ben Cleveland has been suspended for three games without pay due to a violation of the NFL’s substances of abuse policy. |
| New NFL Playing Surface Standards | The NFL has announced that by the 2028 season, all stadiums must meet new enhanced playing surface standards aimed at improving player safety. |
| Injury Updates for Week 15 | Notable injury updates include Eagles’ Jalen Carter undergoing a shoulder procedure and being listed as week-to-week, and Commanders’ Zach Ertz out for the rest of the season with a torn ACL. |
| Upcoming Key Matchups in Week 15 | Key matchups include Patriots vs. Bills, where a victory will give the Patriots their 22nd division title since the 1970 season, and Chargers at Chiefs, both tied at 7-6. |
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