Los Angeles Chargers

Report: Philip Rivers nearly retired from the Chargers last season

Published Jan. 26, 2016 11:02 p.m. ET

foxsports

Philip Rivers nearly moved on from San Diego last offseason -- and then, from pro football altogether.

The Chargers' franchise passer considered retirement amid rib and back injuries, according to U-T San Diego's Michael Gehlken. He was 33 years old at the time.

Rivers, via U-T San Diego:

"Physically, last year, I didn't know if I was going to play. I mean really, physically, I was like, 'I may not even play football anymore.' This year, physically, I'm great."

Rivers reportedly didn't want to move to Los Angeles, either. He was the subject of many a pre-draft trade rumor -- most notably, to the Tennessee Titans -- before ultimately inking a four-year extension.

Chargers fans are sure glad he stayed. A healthy Rivers was back to his normal, dominant self in 2015; he completed over 66 percent of his throws for 29 touchdowns and nearly 4,800 yards.