There was a point in time where Philip Rivers was considered an elite quarterback in the NFL. The San Diego Chargers were considered a lock come playoff time and he proved to be Peyton Manning's kryptonite mores time than one. Three years ago it would have been insane to think the Chargers would let Rivers go, but back-to-back disappointing seasons have the team giving their franchise quarterback one more shot. It is reported that 2013 will be River's last shot to prove his worth in San Diego.
At 31-years old, Rivers is entering his 10th season in the NFL. He has not missed a start with the team since 2006. It is crazy to imagine him not playing for the Chargers in the upcoming seasons, but if he fails to improve the team's record, they will have to move on from him.
The Chargers are in a tight financial situation. Their tight salary cap led them to not restructure Rivers' contract during the offseason. His contract reaches its peak this upcoming season. He will earn $17 million before it drops more than $2 million in 2014. The Chargers opted not to give him a new contract, instead waiting things out, which could mean they are preparing to release Rivers if he has another mediocre season.
In the past two seasons, Rivers has recorded 47 turnovers. That is second to only Jets' quarterback Mark Sanchez. While Rivers did throw for 3,606 yards and 26 touchdowns last season, the Chargers finished a disappointing 7-9, causing the firing of A.J. Smith and coach Norv Turner. Is Rivers next on the chopping block?
San Diego has done their best to surround Rivers with weapons for the upcoming season in order to increase production. A better supporting cast could help. They brought in running back Danny Woodhead, along with three offensive linemen. With a rookie head coach, it is sink or swim for Rivers. Mike McCoy is a former quarterback and can help construct a better passing offense for the Chargers and help Rivers become better at the position.
Yes, Rivers had a better passer rating last season than Joe Flacco, but he failed to turn that into points for the Chargers. 2013 is the final audition for Rivers. If he fails to make the team a contender, he could see himself without a team come next season.