Michael Strahan recently defended himself and his colleague Howie Long following a surprising remark from Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers during a FOX NFL Sunday pregame show. Rivers, who made headlines for returning to the NFL at age 44, specifically called out Strahan and Long for comments made about his physique.
Rivers’ Improbable Comeback
In an interview aired on December 28, 2025, Rivers discussed his emotional return to football. He expressed his motivation for coming out of retirement, stating it stemmed from his love for the game rather than the pursuit of a championship. Rivers previously played in the playoffs in 2020 before stepping back from the sport.
Colts vs. Jaguars
As the Colts prepared for their Week 17 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Rivers opened up about the fears and uncertainties he faced regarding his comeback. He stated, “The only way to find out if you can do it was to come back out here, a little bit out of shape, or a lot of shape.” Rivers emphasized that his performance is driven by mental acuity more than physical prowess.
Strahan’s Response
After Rivers’ comments, Strahan quickly placed the blame on Howie Long for the remarks about Rivers’ weight. Strahan remarked, “Howie was the one who said that about the weight. He threw my name in to take the heat off him.” This humorous exchange underscored Strahan’s efforts to diffuse any tension and show support for Rivers.
Highlights of Rivers’ Season
- Rivers returned to the NFL in 2025 after a two-year hiatus.
- In a recent game, he recorded 277 passing yards and two touchdowns.
- Despite being out of playoff contention, his performance remains a highlight of the season.
Praise from Strahan
Following the interview, Strahan continued to praise Rivers, describing his performance as inspirational. He commented, “Watching him play is like watching that father who goes out and plays to show the son that anything is possible in life like a movie.” Strahan’s admiration highlights the respect the NFL community has for Rivers’ determination and resilience.
As the season progresses, Rivers’ comeback continues to capture the attention of fans and analysts alike, making him one of the standout stories of the NFL this year. His journey exemplifies the passion and dedication required to compete at a high level, even later in life.
