Posted on Nov 02

Broncos' Lewis becomes oldest TE to play in NFL at age 41

Posted Nov 2, 2025

Marcedes Lewis has made history as the oldest tight end to ever play in an NFL game at age 41 while competing for the Denver Broncos.

Why it matters: Lewis's achievement not only highlights his longevity and resilience but also underscores the evolving role of veterans in the increasingly competitive landscape of professional football.

As teams continue to seek experienced players who can contribute both on and off the field, Lewis's presence in the game exemplifies how age does not necessarily equate to diminishing performance.
His recent signing reflects the Broncos' need for depth at the tight end position, particularly after injuries sidelined other players.

What’s new: Lewis was signed to the Broncos' practice squad just days before making this historic appearance against the Houston Texans.

Promoted to the active roster shortly before the game, he stepped in to fill a critical gap left by injuries to starters Lucas Krull and Nate Adkins.
Prior to Lewis's arrival, the only healthy tight ends on the roster were Evan Engram and Adam Trautman.

By the numbers: The veteran tight end's journey in the NFL is remarkable and noteworthy.

Drafted 28th overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006, he spent 12 seasons with the team before playing five years with the Green Bay Packers and two with the Chicago Bears.
Notably, Lewis appeared in all 17 games last season, showcasing his durability despite being well into his 40s.

Yes, but: While Lewis's age draws attention, it also raises questions about the physical demands of the position.

As a tight end, the responsibilities include both blocking and receiving, requiring a combination of strength, agility, and tactical awareness.
Critics may argue that younger players can often outperform older counterparts in terms of speed and dynamic playmaking, making Lewis's contributions even more impressive.

What to watch: Lewis's impact on the Broncos will be crucial as the season progresses.

His experience could prove invaluable in mentoring younger tight ends and providing stability during games where strategic execution is key.
Observers will be keen to see how frequently he is utilized within offensive schemes, especially those that require tight ends to act as dual threats in both run-blocking and pass-catching scenarios.

The bottom line: Marcedes Lewis's remarkable milestone serves as a testament to the potential for longevity in the NFL amidst ever-increasing competition.

His journey offers inspiration to both current players and aspiring athletes, illustrating that with dedication and resilience, age can merely be a number in the pursuit of excellence on the field.

Broncos' Lewis becomes oldest TE to play in NFL at age 41

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 2, 2025

Marcedes Lewis has made history as the oldest tight end to ever play in an NFL game at age 41 while competing for the Denver Broncos.

As teams continue to seek experienced players who can contribute both on and off the field, Lewis's presence in the game exemplifies how age does not necessarily equate to diminishing performance.

His recent signing reflects the Broncos' need for depth at the tight end position, particularly after injuries sidelined other players.

What’s new: Lewis was signed to the Broncos' practice squad just days before making this historic appearance against the Houston Texans.

Promoted to the active roster shortly before the game, he stepped in to fill a critical gap left by injuries to starters Lucas Krull and Nate Adkins.

Prior to Lewis's arrival, the only healthy tight ends on the roster were Evan Engram and Adam Trautman.

By the numbers: The veteran tight end's journey in the NFL is remarkable and noteworthy.

Drafted 28th overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006, he spent 12 seasons with the team before playing five years with the Green Bay Packers and two with the Chicago Bears.

Notably, Lewis appeared in all 17 games last season, showcasing his durability despite being well into his 40s.

Yes, but: While Lewis's age draws attention, it also raises questions about the physical demands of the position.

As a tight end, the responsibilities include both blocking and receiving, requiring a combination of strength, agility, and tactical awareness.

Critics may argue that younger players can often outperform older counterparts in terms of speed and dynamic playmaking, making Lewis's contributions even more impressive.

What to watch: Lewis's impact on the Broncos will be crucial as the season progresses.

His experience could prove invaluable in mentoring younger tight ends and providing stability during games where strategic execution is key.

Observers will be keen to see how frequently he is utilized within offensive schemes, especially those that require tight ends to act as dual threats in both run-blocking and pass-catching scenarios.

The bottom line: Marcedes Lewis's remarkable milestone serves as a testament to the potential for longevity in the NFL amidst ever-increasing competition.

His journey offers inspiration to both current players and aspiring athletes, illustrating that with dedication and resilience, age can merely be a number in the pursuit of excellence on the field.