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Future Hall of Famer Philip Rivers Sends 5-Word Message to Sam Darnold Ahead of Sunday’s Showdown with the Colts – And Darnold’s Reaction Makes the Entire Seahawks Nation Explode

Seattle, Washington – 12/12/2025

This week, the atmosphere at Lumen Field — already electric with the playoff race tightening — became the center of the NFL universe when Philip Rivers, now 44, stunned the league by coming out of retirement and signing to the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad. With the Colts losing Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson, and now Riley Leonard, the odds of Rivers starting again for the first time since 2020 are suddenly very real.

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And just days before the showdown that’s being billed as the AFC–NFC collision of the week, Rivers sent a five-word message rippling across social media:

“Tell Sam I’m not done.”

Five words — enough to spark a storyline.
A subtle challenge from a future Hall of Famer whose competitive fire has never cooled.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald responded with respect: “He’s one of the best competitors in NFL history.” But inside Seattle’s locker room, every eye turned to the one man Rivers called out directly: Sam Darnold.

And Darnold’s response set Seahawks Nation on fire.

“If a legend like him truly comes back, he will always have my full respect — but he also knows Lumen Field isn’t the place to test luck. I’ve sacrificed too much to be here, and I won’t back down from anyone. Sunday won’t be about the past or résumés — it’s about this team and how we fight.”

Three lines — enough to sound like thunder in Seattle.
A statement without hesitation, fear, or apology.

Teammates instantly rallied behind Darnold. Uchenna Nwosu, who once played alongside Rivers with the Chargers, laughed: “I love Phil, but if he takes the field this week… Seattle isn’t going to greet him gently.”

Cooper Kupp added: “Shoot, it’s Philip Rivers — but this is Lumen Field. Nobody walks in here easily.”

What was once a routine AFC–NFC matchup has transformed into a narrative about a returning legend, a reborn quarterback, and a stadium ready to explode.

Sunday won’t just be another game.
It will be a moment that could define the season for both teams.

BREAKING: Chiefs Among Top Landing Spots for Former $141 Million Future Hall of Fame Pass Rusher
Kansas City, Missouri – January 2026 Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly one of the top landing spots for Khalil Mack, a former $141 million edge rusher, as he is set to hit free agency in the spring. The 34-year-old player, widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer, is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a veteran pass rusher to their roster, and the Chiefs could be a perfect fit. After spending the past few years with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mack had a solid 2025 season, recording 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback pressures. While Mack may not be the dominant force he once was, he remains a top-tier pass rusher and a leader with invaluable experience, potentially providing a significant boost to the Chiefs' defense, which is already formidable. According to Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports, the Chiefs could be a leading contender for Mack’s services. “Mack would be a perfect addition to Kansas City, a team that’s already stacked on offense but could use another strong presence on defense. The Chiefs have the salary cap flexibility to bring in a veteran like Mack without making a major financial commitment, making him an ideal fit for their Super Bowl aspirations,” Pereles said. The Chiefs have established themselves as one of the NFL's elite teams, particularly on offense, but adding a veteran presence like Mack could provide that extra edge needed on defense. His leadership and ability to disrupt quarterbacks would be a valuable asset as Kansas City pushes for another Super Bowl title. However, the Chiefs won’t be the only team competing for Mack’s services. Other teams like the Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, and Carolina Panthers are also interested. The Bears and Bengals have specific defensive needs, while the Panthers have multiple positions to fill on their defense. “Chiefs is an organization with a rich history and a bright future. They have an incredible offense, but I know I can help elevate their defense to the next level. I want to be part of something special and bring that championship mentality to a team that’s already so close to greatness. If I’m given the chance, I will do everything in my power to help the Chiefs win it all,” Mack shared. For Mack, the final decision will depend on the role he’s offered and which team is best positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in the coming years. But as the Chiefs continue their pursuit of another championship, they remain one of the most attractive landing spots for this veteran pass rusher.