They say the NFL belongs to the young, yet every season a few seasoned arms prove that time doesn’t erase talent. These quarterbacks remind the league that experience can still shape the rhythm of Sunday afternoons.
In 2025, their presence lingers like an anchor amid constant change. Offensive schemes grow faster, defenses more ruthless, but they adapt with craft and an instinct honed through years of battles that rookies can only study on film.
What keeps them here isn’t nostalgia alone—it’s survival, discipline and the refusal to surrender the huddle. Each snap carries both history and urgency, proof that longevity can be as commanding as raw talent.
Aaron Rodgers, 41 | Pittsburgh Steelers
In what is proving to be a true late-career saga, Aaron Rodgers steps onto the field as the undisputed oldest starting quarterback of the 2025 season, an astonishing 41 years old and set to turn 42 in December.
Having carved out a Hall of Fame legacy primarily in Green Bay and enduring a tumultuous tenure in New York, his current role with the Pittsburgh Steelers represents one of the most intriguing “final chapters” in recent memory.
His continued presence isn’t merely about stats; it’s a testament to his unparalleled arm talent and cognitive mastery of the game, factors that still allow him to compete at an elite level despite the physical toll of 21 seasons.
Joe Flacco, 40 | Cleveland Browns
The reigning comeback story of the league refuses to fade, as Joe Flacco begins the 2025 season still commanding an offense at the age of 40. The veteran, who earned the nickname “Joe Cool” for his calm demeanor, is one of only a handful of quarterbacks in NFL history to start a game after crossing the 40-year threshold.
His ability to absorb complex offenses quickly and deliver deep throws with the flick of his wrist highlights a skillset that has preserved his relevance across multiple teams, proving that experience and a strong pocket presence can still outshine younger competitors.
Josh Johnson, 39 | Washington Commanders
The career arc of Josh Johnson is a masterclass in professional tenacity. He stands as the NFL’s ultimate journeyman, having signed with more teams than any other player in league history. At 39, his value is measured not just in snaps, but in the sheer encyclopedic knowledge of offensive systems he carries.
His role with the Washington Commanders in 2025 transcends a typical backup designation; he functions as a silent consultant in the quarterback room, an inexhaustible resource of league experience and tactical adaptability that few players can rival.
Andy Dalton, 37 | Carolina Panthers
Known throughout his career for steady reliability, Andy Dalton has successfully transitioned into the highly valued role of professional veteran backup for the Carolina Panthers.
At 37, the “Red Rifle” not only offers the organization proven insurance in the event of injury to the starter, but also provides a calm, experienced anchor crucial for the development of the franchise’s young passer.
His extended stay in Carolina underscores the continued high demand for a reliable, well-prepared quarterback capable of both mentorship and high-quality emergency play.
Kirk Cousins, 37 | Atlanta Falcons
The situation surrounding Kirk Cousins in Atlanta for 2025 presents one of the league’s most intriguing financial and age-related dramas. After signing a massive free-agent contract, the four-time Pro Bowler found himself unexpectedly relegated to a high-profile backup role.
At 37, he holds the distinction of being one of the highest-paid backups in NFL history, and his presence on the sidelines is a constant reminder of his elite ability. Despite the organization prioritizing youth, his professionalism and history of high-level performance ensure he remains a top-tier asset.
Matthew Stafford, 37 | Los Angeles Rams
A gritty competitor whose right arm has delivered some of the most memorable throws of his generation, Matthew Stafford enters his age-37 season facing persistent whispers about potential retirement—yet his impact remains undeniable.
As the anchor of the Los Angeles Rams‘ offense and already ranking in the top 10 all-time for passing yards, His style has evolved from high-volume gun-slinger to calculated veteran, capable of masterminding game-winning drives. His continued drive to play, even after capturing a Super Bowl title, underscores a profound commitment to the game and a high tolerance for pain.
Russell Wilson, 36 | New York Giants
Russell Wilson, now a well-traveled veteran at 36, continues his journey in the league, bringing his unique blend of athleticism, evasiveness, and deep-ball accuracy to the New York Giants‘ scheme.
While his style relies heavily on mobility—a dangerous proposition for an aging quarterback—his meticulous preparation and reputation as a consummate professional have allowed him to maintain a high level of performance into his mid-30s. His longevity is a credit to his intense focus on fitness and the mental aspect of playing the most demanding position in professional sports.
Tyrod Taylor, 36 | New York Jets
Tyrod Taylor has carved out a notable career as a veteran who seamlessly blends athletic mobility with cautious, low-turnover decision-making. At 36, he continues his tenure with the New York Jets, offering the security of a quarterback who can step in and manage a game effectively without compromising the football, a priceless commodity for any contending team.
He represents a rare physical specimen on this list: a quarterback with significant starting experience who retains the physical tools necessary to be a legitimate threat outside the pocket, maintaining a high level of athleticism late into his career.
Geno Smith, 34 | Las Vegas Raiders
The story of Geno Smith is one of late-career redemption and perseverance, an arc that sees him firmly entrenched as a starting quarterback at 34 for the Las Vegas Raiders.
After spending years as a backup, he revived his career with a stellar Pro Bowl season in 2022, demonstrating that talent, even when dormant, can bloom late in a quarterback’s tenure.
His success in maintaining his starting role in the highly competitive league validates the belief that veteran quarterbacks who master the mental aspects of the game can perform well into their mid-thirties, defying initial career setbacks.
Jimmy Garoppolo, 33 | Los Angeles Rams
At 33, Jimmy Garoppolo represents the transitional veteran age on this list: still relatively young for a quarterback, but already bearing the badge of a proven commodity.
His role with the Rams is that of a luxury backup, a Super Bowl-experienced player retained specifically to provide stylistic continuity should Matthew Stafford be sidelined.
His retention underscores the organizational value placed on a backup whose experience in complex offensive systems and composure under fire are highly proven assets, even if the majority of his 2025 season is spent on the sidelines.
| Player | Date of birth | Age | Team |
| Aaron Rodgers | December 2, 1983 | 41 | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Joe Flacco | January 16, 1985 | 40 | Cleveland Browns |
| Josh Johnson | May 15, 1986 | 39 | Washington Commanders |
| Andy Dalton | October 29, 1987 | 37 | Carolina Panthers |
| Kirk Cousins | August 19, 1988 | 37 | Atlanta Falcons |
| Matthew Stafford | February 7, 1988 | 37 | Los Angeles Rams |
| Russell Wilson | November 29, 1988 | 36 | New York Giants |
| Tyrod Taylor | August 3, 1989 | 36 | New York Jets |
| Geno Smith | October 10, 1990 | 34 | Las Vegas Raiders |
| Jimmy Garoppolo | November 2, 1991 | 33 | Los Angeles Rams |