Who is the Oldest Quarterback in the NFL Histroy?
The NFL has seen countless legendary quarterbacks over the years, but one stands out when it comes to longevity in the league. While many players come and go, there are a few who have defied age, playing well past the years that most would consider their prime. Among them, the oldest quarterback in NFL history remains a testament to not only exceptional skill but also incredible durability.
According to online sources, George Blanda holds the record as the oldest quarterback in NFL history. He played both as a quarterback and kicker, remaining active until age 48, with his final season in 1975 for the Oakland Raiders.
Key Details
- Name: George Blanda
- Age at retirement: 48 years
- Final season: 1975 (Oakland Raiders)
- NFL career span: 1949 – 1975
- Teams played for: Chicago Bears, Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders
- Notable fact: Blanda’s dual-role longevity as both a quarterback and a kicker set a record that still stands nearly five decades later.
As of the 2025 season, Aaron Rodgers (41) of the Pittsburgh Steelers is the oldest active quarterback, but Blanda remains the all-time record holder for age in NFL history.
He played for 26 seasons, starting with the Chicago Bears in 1949 and retiring in 1976 at age 48. He also played for the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders, becoming both a skilled quarterback and a reliable kicker.
Blanda’s most famous run came with the Raiders in 1970 when, at 43, he led several late-game comebacks with clutch throws and field goals.
He was known for his toughness, leadership, and ability to stay calm under pressure. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981.
List of Other Oldest Players in NFL History
Check out the list of oldest players.
1. Tom Brady
Tom Brady is considered the most successful quarterback in modern NFL history. He played 23 seasons, mainly with the New England Patriots and later with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Brady retired at 45 in 2023 after winning seven Super Bowls and becoming the all-time leader in passing yards and touchdown passes.
He was known for strong preparation, precise passing, and fierce competitiveness. Even in his forties, Brady led teams deep into the playoffs, proving his durability and skill long after most players retired.
2. John Nesser
John Nesser was one of the oldest pro football players, active before the NFL was officially formed. He played during the early 1900s for the Columbus Panhandles, a family-driven team made mostly of his brothers.
Nesser played both quarterback and lineman roles, showing versatility in an era when players covered multiple positions.
He was 45 when he retired, working as a railroad mechanic while playing football on weekends. Although from a different time, his name still appears on lists of the oldest men to play the sport.
3. Warren Moon
Warren Moon made NFL history as one of the first successful African-American quarterbacks. He began in the Canadian Football League and moved to the NFL at age 28, playing until he was 44.
Moon played for the Houston Oilers, Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs.
He was known for his powerful arm and deep passing ability. He finished with more than 49,000 passing yards in the NFL, making him one of the league’s most productive quarterbacks.
4. Vinny Testaverde
Vinny Testaverde had one of the longest careers of any modern quarterback. He played for seven different teams between 1987 and 2007, finishing at age 44.
Testaverde was drafted first overall in 1987 and kept playing as a starter and backup for two decades.
His best years came with the New York Jets and Cleveland Browns, where he threw for over 46,000 yards. He was known for his strong arm and steady backup presence late in his career.
5. Drew Brees
Drew Brees was one of the most accurate passers ever in football. He played for the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints for 20 seasons, retiring at 42. Brees led the Saints to their first Super Bowl win in 2010 and set numerous passing records, including most career completions. Despite being shorter than most quarterbacks, his intelligence and quick release helped him succeed. He ended his career with over 80,000 passing yards and a reputation for leading fast-paced offenses.
Oldest Active NFL Players (2025)
- Aaron Rodgers, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers: 42 years old
- Joe Flacco, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
- Matt Prater, K, Arizona Cardinals
- Nick Folk, K, New York Jets
- Matt Prater, K, Buffalo Bills
- Thomas Morstead, P, San Francisco 49ers
- Jon Weeks, LS, San Francisco 49ers
- Calais Campbell, DL, Arizona Cardinals
- Morgan Cox, LS, Tennessee Titans
- J.J. Jansen, LS, Carolina Panthers
Disclaimer:
The information provided is based on publicly available sources and may reflect changes over time. Please verify with official NFL resources for the most current details.
