Why was Philip Rivers benched on Monday night?

Philip Rivers was benched late in the game to prevent further injury after a crucial pick-six sealed a defeat.

Who is Riley Leonard and why did he play?

Riley Leonard is a rookie quarterback who entered the game in the final minutes due to injuries to other quarterbacks and to gain experience.

What was the outcome of the game between Rivers' team and the 49ers?

Rivers' team lost to the San Francisco 49ers after a late pick-six sealed the defeat.

Home / Sports / Rivers benched as rookie Leonard enters the game

Rivers benched as rookie Leonard enters the game

23 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Philip Rivers' valiant effort ended with a late pick-six.
Rookie Riley Leonard entered the game in the final minutes.
Injuries to Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson led to Leonard's action.

Rivers benched as rookie Leonard enters the game

Philip Rivers displayed a valiant performance on Monday night, but a critical late-game interception returned for a touchdown ultimately sealed a defeat for his team against the San Francisco 49ers. With only a few minutes remaining in the contest, the team brought in rookie quarterback Riley Leonard.

Leonard's entry was a strategic move to protect Rivers from further potential harm during the game's closing moments. Despite Rivers' best efforts, the team's defense was unable to secure a crucial stop. Leonard, a sixth-round draft pick, is expected to be with the team next year, and his recent action is crucial experience given injuries to Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson.

While Philip Rivers might still see action in Week 17, his appearance on Monday night was notably shortened. This substitution provided an opportunity to safeguard Rivers and afford Leonard valuable live NFL game snaps, offering a glimpse into the team's future quarterback situation.