The Indianapolis Colts made it official on Wednesday, signing 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers out of retirement and to the practice squad. And when Rivers does eventually suit up for the Colts, he won't have to choose a new number.

In his lone season with the Colts in 2020 — and for his entire NFL career — Rivers had worn the No. 17 jersey. But that number had been taken by Daniel Jones. Under normal circumstances, Rivers would've needed to choose a new number for this return to football. But NFL rules opened up the No. 17 for the taking.

Since Jones was placed on season-ending injured reserve, his number was vacated. So, Rivers went ahead and reclaimed the No. 17.

Should Jones return to the Colts after he recovers from his Achilles injury, I'm sure he'll be able to get his number back. But for the meantime, Rivers will be wearing those familiar digits.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why Philip Rivers was allowed to take Daniel Jones' number with Colts

Reporting by Andrew Joseph, For The Win / For The Win

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect