10 Oldest NFL Players Ever

Age doesn’t always slow down the toughest NFL players. Some athletes keep going, proving that skill and determination can outlast the years. The oldest NFL players pushed the limits of the game, staying on the field well into their 40s. Their stories inspire fans and prove that age is just a number when it comes to football. Here’s a look at the oldest NFL players who made history.

George Blanda

George Blanda is the oldest player in NFL history, playing until he was 48 years old, with a career spanning 26 seasons from 1949 to 1975. He played as both a quarterback and placekicker, a rare dual-role that contributed to his long career. Blanda began with the Chicago Bears, later playing for the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders. Known for his versatility and resilience, Blanda was a key part of the Raiders’ success in the 1960s and 1970s, often leading late-game comebacks. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981.

Morten Andersen

Morten Andersen, known as “The Great Dane,” is one of the most prolific placekickers in NFL history. Andersen played 25 seasons from 1982 to 2007, retiring at age 47, and still holds several scoring records. He played primarily for the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons, also spending time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Giants. Andersen was known for his longevity, accuracy, and powerful leg, leading him to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017. He became the all-time leading scorer in the NFL during his career.

Adam Vinatieri

Adam Vinatieri, often considered the most clutch kicker in NFL history, played from 1996 to 2019 and retired at age 46. He spent most of his 24-season career with the New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts. Vinatieri is best known for his game-winning field goals in three Super Bowls with the Patriots, earning a reputation for performing under pressure. He holds the NFL record for most career field goals and points scored, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest kickers of all time.

Ben Agajanian

Ben Agajanian, famously known as “The Toeless Wonder,” had a 19-season career from 1945 to 1964, retiring at age 45. Despite losing four toes in a work accident, Agajanian continued to play as a successful placekicker. He had stints with several teams, including the New York Giants, Green Bay Packers, and Dallas Cowboys. Agajanian’s remarkable ability to kick with an altered foot made him a legend, and he remains one of the oldest players to have ever suited up in the NFL.

Bobby Marshall

Bobby Marshall, one of the first African-American players in professional football, played until the age of 45 in the early NFL from 1920 to 1925. Marshall was a versatile athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and track, and broke barriers during a time of racial segregation in sports. Playing for the Rock Island Independents and Duluth Kelleys, Marshall was known for his strength and versatility on the field, often playing multiple positions.

Vinny Testaverde

Vinny Testaverde was a quarterback who played for 21 seasons from 1987 to 2007, retiring at age 44. Testaverde, who won the Heisman Trophy in college, had a long NFL career with numerous teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Jets, and Dallas Cowboys. Despite never achieving consistent team success, Testaverde’s arm strength and leadership kept him in the league for two decades, amassing over 46,000 passing yards and 275 touchdown passes.

Warren Moon

Warren Moon had a stellar career as a quarterback, playing until he was 44 years old, with his NFL tenure running from 1984 to 2000. Moon was notable for his success in both the Canadian Football League (CFL) and NFL, where he starred for the Houston Oilers and Minnesota Vikings. Moon was known for his deep ball accuracy and athleticism, finishing his career with over 49,000 passing yards and becoming the first African-American quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Lou Groza

Lou Groza, nicknamed “The Toe,” played in the NFL from 1946 to 1967, retiring at age 44. He was a placekicker and offensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns, playing an instrumental role in their dominance during the 1950s. Groza’s powerful and accurate kicks earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His contributions to both special teams and the offensive line make him one of the most versatile players in NFL history.

Matt Stover

Matt Stover was a placekicker who enjoyed a 19-season career, playing from 1991 to 2009 and retiring at 42. Best known for his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Stover was one of the NFL’s most accurate kickers and helped lead the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory. With over 2,000 career points, Stover was known for his consistency, kicking in high-pressure situations and maintaining accuracy throughout his career.

Jerry Rice

Jerry Rice, widely regarded as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, played from 1985 to 2005, retiring at 42 years old. He set nearly every major receiving record during his 20-year career, including career receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Rice spent most of his career with the San Francisco 49ers, helping them win three Super Bowls. His work ethic, precise route running, and ability to make big plays in clutch moments solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in NFL history.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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