Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger have led the tributes to Philip Rivers after the Indianapolis Colts quarterback announced his NFL retirement.
Rivers, 39, spent the first 16 years of his career with the Chargers, initially in San Diego and later in Los Angeles, before joining the Colts for the 2020 season.
He led the Colts back to the playoffs with an 11-5 record and the team narrowly lost to the Buffalo Bills in the Wildcard Round in what proved to be his final game.
Rivers finishes his 17-year career ranked fifth all-time for both passing yards (63,440) and touchdown passes (421).
While Manning and Roethlisberger – the two other prominent quarterbacks drafted in 2004 – won two Super Bowls apiece, Rivers never made it to the big game.
But they insist it does not detract from his magnificent accomplishments.
Former New York Giants QB Manning wrote on Twitter: "Congrats to Philip on an outstanding career.
"It was fun to watch my fellow Qb from 2004 draft class compete these past 17 years. Enjoy the next phase."
Pittsburgh Steelers QB Roethlisberger, whose own future is uncertain, added: "Philip, what a career!
"An amazing competitor, winner and family man. It has been fun to compete against you and watch you do your thing for so many years.
"I know countless kids have been inspired by you and will benefit from your coaching and football knowledge in the future. God bless!"
Colts head coach Frank Reich had previously said he believed Rivers had more left in the tank.
"Philip is one of the fiercest competitors and most loyal teammates that our game has ever seen," he said after Rivers' announcement.
"His unwavering conviction as a leader and elite intelligence contributed to his Hall of Fame football career.
"Philip made our game better and the National Football League was fortunate to have him.
"I wish Philip, Tiffany and the entire Rivers family the best and thank them for their contributions to our organization and community.
"I am anxious to see Philip trade his helmet for the headset and do what he's always done best – bring his passion to the game of football and make others better."
Two of Rivers' prominent former Chargers pass catchers, Keenan Allen and Hunter Henry, were also quick to send him their gratitude on social media.
Allen wrote: "Husband, Father, Friend, Role Model, Professional, Warrior, Leader!
"Glad that I was blessed to be apart of your career. Showed up everyday like it was your last and never took any moment for granted!"
While Henry added: "Congrats stud. Insane career.
"Thankful for everything you have done for me in my career. You were a true inspiration. Enjoy retirement stud!"
Houston Texans icon JJ Watt called Rivers "one of the smartest I’ve ever played against and a hell of a competitor".
Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins, meanwhile, said Rivers' career was worthy of a place in the Hall of Fame, labelling him "an example to follow as a QB, a team leader, a Dad, and a man of faith".