Retired Colts QB Philip Rivers Named the PFWA’s 2021 ‘Good Guy Award’ Winner

The PFWA has named recently retired Indianapolis Colts veteran starting quarterback Philip Rivers as its ‘2021 Good Guy Award winner’ “for his dealings with the local and national media” during his highly accomplished 17-year pro career.

As the 17th Good Guy Award winner (fittingly, which was Rivers old number #17), the longtime former Chargers franchise standout is the first Indianapolis Colts member to win such an honor.

Per the PFWA’s press release, other nominees were fellow retired New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell, New York Giants cornerback Logan Ryan, and Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons.

Regarding the award:

“The Good Guy Award is given to an NFL player for his qualities and professional style in helping pro football writers do their jobs. The award has been presented annually by the PFWA since 2005.”

Rivers completed 369 of 543 throws (68.0%) for 4,169 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions during all 16 starts in his sole Colts campaign in 2021—having battled through a nasty toe injury down the stretch. He led the Colts to an 11-5 record and an AFC playoff berth.

In what was a strange football season due to COVID-19, Colts fans didn’t get to experience the real Rivers and his fun personality as much in the Indianapolis community and publicly—as initially hoped for.

However, they did see firsthand his veteran leadership, competitiveness, sportsmanship, and football acumen on the football field. That translated to his treatment of the media, as Rivers was not only a consummate teammate and pro in the locker room and while playing, but in how he interacted with NFL reporters and journalists alike daily.

Here’s a salute to ‘Uncle Phil’ who while his Colts career was surprisingly short, he still made a lasting and meaningful impact for the Horseshoe.