The NFL is home to some incredible athletes who have defied the odds to keep playing well into their 30s and 40s. These seasoned players continue to showcase their skills, proving that age is just a number. From kickers and punters to quarterbacks and linemen, they’ve made a lasting impact on the game. Let’s take a look at some of the oldest active NFL players still making waves on the field.
Jason Peters (42 years old)
Jason Peters is the oldest active NFL player in 2024, currently playing as an offensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks. He began his career in 2004, going undrafted but rising to become a Super Bowl champion and a nine-time Pro Bowler. His durability and consistency have made him a key player across multiple teams, including the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles, where he earned his reputation as one of the league’s premier offensive linemen.
Aaron Rodgers (40 years old)
Aaron Rodgers, now a quarterback for the New York Jets, spent the majority of his career with the Green Bay Packers, where he won a Super Bowl and multiple MVP awards. Known for his incredible arm strength and football IQ, Rodgers continues to be one of the NFL’s most talented quarterbacks even as he nears his 41st birthday, showing no signs of slowing down.
Matt Prater (40 years old)
Matt Prater is the kicker for the Arizona Cardinals and has built a reputation for his powerful leg, holding the NFL record for the longest field goal at 64 yards. His consistency in clutch moments has made him a valuable asset throughout his career, which began in 2006, with stints on teams like the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions.
Nick Folk (39 years old)
Nick Folk, currently with the Tennessee Titans, has proven to be one of the most reliable kickers in the NFL since his career began in 2007 with the Dallas Cowboys. With successful tenures on multiple teams, including the New York Jets and New England Patriots, Folk continues to play at a high level.
Joe Flacco (39 years old)
Joe Flacco, now a backup quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, is best known for leading the Baltimore Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2013, where he earned MVP honors. Having played for several teams, including the Denver Broncos and New York Jets, Flacco remains a respected veteran in the league.
Andy Lee (41 years old)
Andy Lee, the veteran punter for the Arizona Cardinals, has been in the NFL since 2004, drafted in the sixth round by the San Francisco 49ers. Over his long career, Lee has earned three Pro Bowl selections and holds multiple punting records. Known for his powerful and precise punts, he has consistently ranked among the league’s top punters in both gross and net yardage. His tenure with teams like the Cleveland Browns and the Arizona Cardinals showcases his lasting impact and reliability on special teams. At 41, Lee remains one of the league’s longest-serving punters.
Marcedes Lewis (39 years old)
Marcedes Lewis, a tight end for the Chicago Bears, has been in the NFL since 2006 after being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round. Renowned for his blocking skills and durability, Lewis has played more games at tight end than any other player in NFL history. After a successful stint with the Jaguars, he joined the Green Bay Packers, where he became a key part of their offense. His ability to contribute both in blocking and catching has kept him in the league for nearly two decades, making him one of the most enduring players in his position.
Robbie Gould (40 years old)
Robbie Gould, currently kicking for the San Francisco 49ers, is one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history. Entering the league in 2005 with the Chicago Bears, Gould became their all-time leading scorer. Known for his clutch performances, Gould has made crucial kicks in playoff games, including a perfect record in postseason field goals. His precision and dependability have earned him a place among the NFL’s top kickers, with over 450 successful field goals to his name. At 40, Gould’s career longevity and consistent performance continue to make him a vital asset to the 49ers.
Thomas Morstead (38 years old)
Thomas Morstead, punter for the New York Jets, has been one of the most accurate and reliable punters since entering the NFL in 2009. Best known for his 12-season career with the New Orleans Saints, Morstead helped them secure a Super Bowl title in his rookie season. Throughout his career, he has consistently ranked among the top punters in terms of average yards per punt. His precise kicking ability and leadership on special teams have made him an invaluable player for multiple franchises, now contributing to the Jets as they rebuild their special teams unit.
J.J. Jansen (38 years old)
J.J. Jansen, long snapper for the Carolina Panthers, has been a fixture of their special teams since 2009. As the Panthers’ all-time leader in games played, Jansen has shown remarkable consistency and durability in the demanding role of long snapper. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2013 and has continued to provide reliable snaps for both field goals and punts throughout his career. His leadership and precise snapping have been essential to the Panthers’ success on special teams over the last decade.
Jon Weeks (38 years old)
Jon Weeks, long snapper for the Houston Texans, holds the franchise record for the most consecutive games played, with over 200 games since joining the team in 2010. Known for his reliability and accuracy, Weeks has been a cornerstone of the Texans’ special teams, playing in every game since his debut. His consistency in delivering perfect snaps has earned him recognition as one of the most durable and effective long snappers in the NFL. In 2024, Weeks signed a one-year contract extension to continue his record-breaking career with the Texans.
Dustin Colquitt (41 years old)
Dustin Colquitt, a veteran punter for the Cleveland Browns, has been a mainstay in the NFL since 2005. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs, Colquitt spent 15 seasons with the team, earning two Pro Bowl selections. Known for his strong leg and precise placement, Colquitt has been a key special teams player for multiple teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns. His experience and consistency have allowed him to maintain a long career in a position that often sees high turnover.
Cam Heyward (35 years old)
Cam Heyward, the defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been a dominant force since entering the league in 2011. A multiple-time Pro Bowl and All-Pro selection, Heyward has established himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. His combination of strength, leadership, and football IQ has made him a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense. Despite being younger than many others on this list, Heyward’s longevity in a physically demanding position speaks to his durability and elite performance level, making him a critical player for Pittsburgh’s defense.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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