NFL Network's Top 100 Players of 2017 continued Monday night and the second Charger to make the list was none other than Philip Rivers.
Joining Joey Bosa, the Bolts' signal caller came in at number 73. He's the second quarterback to make the list thus far.
"Regardless of where you end up on the list, I think as a competitor, one thing you do want is the respect of your peers," Rivers said. "Knowing the players have a hand in it and knowing I have been on the list six times, shoot, if you told me all that in 1989 when I was eight years old, I'd say that's pretty awesome. Obviously you play for way more than being on a top 100 list but wherever you fall on there, while it is debatable, it's certainly appreciated."
This is Rivers' sixth-career appearance on the list.
Ask fans and teammates alike about number 17 and it's undeniable that he's special. Hunter Henry discovered this first-hand during his rookie season in 2016.
"(His ranking is) definitely too low," Henry said. "It's my personal opinion because being around a guy like that is pretty special. Just the things that he does before he steps onto the field so when he does step onto the field, it's just cool to watch."
"He's a savage," added Keenan Allen. "Phil's a beast and has always been a beast ever since I've been here. He proves himself every year; day in and day out in the meeting room and on the field. He's the first one here and last one to leave."
In 2016, Rivers earned Pro Bowl honors and surpassed Hall of Famer Dan Fouts for sole possession of the franchise's touchdown passes record. He finished last season ranked fifth in the NFL with passing yards (4,386) and fourth in the league in touchdown passes (33).
Rivers' diligent preparation has never wavered. As he heads into his 14th NFL season, those closest to him in the huddle are confident he isn't slowing down any time soon.
"He always puts us in the right position," Allen continued. "Nobody is ever confused on the field. Everyone know what's going on because he's going to tell you and explain it in the huddle when he calls a play."
"It is awesome and unbelievable to see a guy like that prepare," Henry explained. "He knows what he's doing. He knows what the other team is doing. He knows other teams so well that when he steps out there; it's easy for him."
