In the world of professional sports, it’s a rare feat for athletes to excel beyond their mid-30s. However, some exceptional individuals have defied the odds, showcasing remarkable skills and achievements even in their later years. Here, we’ll delve into the top 10 seasons by players over the age of 35, highlighting their impressive performances and the factors that contributed to their success.
10. Roger Staubach, QB (36) – 1978 Dallas Cowboys
Staubach led the NFL in passer rating and adjusted net yards per attempt, guiding the Cowboys to an 11-4 record and a Super Bowl XIII appearance.
9. Jason Kelce, C (36) – 2023 Philadelphia Eagles
Kelce’s exceptional blocking skills and “Brotherly Shove” play helped the Eagles rank No. 1 in short-yardage runs and earn him a first-team All-Pro selection.
8. Rod Woodson, FS (37) – 2002 Oakland Raiders
Woodson’s eight interceptions, including two pick-sixes, earned him a first-team All-Pro nod and helped the Raiders become AFC champions.
7. Ken Riley, CB (36) – 1983 Cincinnati Bengals
Riley’s eight interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, and shutdown performances against top receivers secured his first-team All-Pro status.
6. Aaron Rodgers, QB (37) – 2020 Green Bay Packers
Rodgers’ 4,299 passing yards, 48 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions earned him his third MVP award, leading the Packers to a 13-3 record and an NFC North title.
5. Sam Mills, LB (37) – 1996 Carolina Panthers
Mills’ 122 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and one interception helped the Panthers rank second in points allowed and fourth in defensive DVOA.
4. Steve Young, QB (37) – 1998 San Francisco 49ers
Young’s 4,170 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and 454 rushing yards showcased his exceptional mobility and led the 49ers to a 12-4 record.
3. Reggie White, DE (37) – 1998 Green Bay Packers
White’s 16 sacks, 46 tackles, and four forced fumbles earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award and led the Packers to a top-ranked pass defense.
2. Tom Brady, QB (44) – 2021 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Brady’s 5,316 passing yards, 43 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions cemented his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, leading the Buccaneers to a 13-4 record.
1. Peyton Manning, QB (37) – 2013 Denver Broncos
Manning’s record-breaking 55 touchdown passes, 5,477 passing yards, and 10 interceptions led the Broncos to a 13-3 record and an AFC championship.
Currently, five players over 35 are making significant contributions to their teams: Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, Calais Campbell, and Trent Williams. Among them, Williams stands out as the most impressive, with a 98% pass block win rate and 59% run block win rate at age 36.
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