In past years, Tom Brady held the distinction of being the oldest active player in the NFL. But since he retired ahead of the 2023 season, there’s a new elder statesman in town. Let’s examine the oldest player currently on an NFL roster.
Who Is the Oldest Player in the NFL?
In 2025, Aaron Rodgers started the season as the oldest active player in the league. This past offseason, he signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking what will likely be the final chapter of his legendary career.
However, Rodgers is no longer the oldest player in the league. On Dec. 9, the Colts signed Philip Rivers after injuries to Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson Sr.
Rivers, who is 44 years old, last played in the NFL in the 2020 season and is an eight-time Pro Bowler. He is now the oldest player in the league, and Indianapolis brought him back to keep their playoff hopes alive. According to PFSN’s NFL Playoff Predictor, after their loss in Week 14, the Colts currently have a 42% chance of making the postseason.
By signing with the Colts, Rivers could join an exclusive club of players this season. “Philip Rivers could be the 5th QB in NFL history to start a game at age 44 or older, joining Tom Brady, Vinny Testaverde, Steve DeBerg and Warren Moon, per ESPN’s Evan Kaplan,” wrote Adam Schefter on X.
Rodgers, who is currently 42 years old, has had a decent season so far with the Steelers. Pittsburgh is currently the leader in the AFC North with a record of 7-6. According to PFSN’s QB Impact metric, Rodgers is the 31st-ranked quarterback in the league this year.
After an underwhelming stint with the New York Jets, Rodgers was determined not to leave the game on a low note. Joining forces with head coach Mike Tomlin, he’s hoping to make one last Super Bowl run in Pittsburgh.
Who Is the Oldest Player in NFL History?
While Rodgers and Rivers’ longevity is impressive, it’s nearly impossible for them to come close to the record for the oldest player in NFL history, a mark held by George Blanda, the legendary quarterback and kicker who played until age 48.
Blanda’s extraordinary career stretched from 1949 to 1975, during which he suited up for the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Colts, Houston Oilers, and Oakland Raiders. His final game came in the 1975 AFC Championship, where he nailed a 41-yard field goal and an extra point.
Over 26 seasons, Blanda built one of football’s most decorated résumés. He was a three-time AFL champion, AFL MVP, NFL Man of the Year, four-time AFL All-Star, three-time All-AFL pick, two-time AFL passing yards leader, and AP Male Athlete of the Year.
He was also named to the AFL’s All-Time Team, honored among the Top-100 Greatest Bears of All Time, and enshrined in the Titans’ Ring of Honor.
Blanda still holds multiple NFL records, including most seasons played (26) and most career extra points made (943). He’s also tied for the most passing touchdowns in a single game (seven).
After Blanda, the next-oldest players in NFL history were kickers Morten Andersen (47), Adam Vinatieri (46), and John Carney (46).
