Louisville QB Tyler Shough issues strong statement amid controversy over his age in the NFL Draft

The upcoming NFL Draft, set to take place in the final days of April, brings some intriguing cases to keep an eye on. One of them is Louisville Cardinals starting quarterback Tyler Shough, who was direct with the media regarding the controversy surrounding his age as the event approaches.

On September 28, Shough will turn 26, which would make his arrival in the NFL at an age that’s somewhat uncommon by general standards. Despite this, the seasoned College Football player believes the controversy surrounding his age was stirred up by the media, and he doesn’t see it as an issue for the franchises.

“Not from coaches or NFL personnel. Only from the media,” the talented QB said via NBC Sports. “More than anything, just letting them know it’s been an advantage for me.”

Contrary to what many believe, Shough is confident that his experience during his time in the NCAAF can serve as an advantage over the younger quarterbacks in this draft class when it comes to selecting a player for the position.

Tyler Shough #9 of the Louisville Cardinals looks on as he warms up before a game against the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium on October 25, 2024 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.

His older age for this event also carries a personal incentive: Shough is already married, something that perhaps many of his peers at his age haven’t yet considered. “It changes your perspective,” Shough said. “She helps me out, even learning the playbook, and I’m kind of in debt to her more than anything.”

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Age in quarterbacks, according to Shough

At 25 years old, Tyler Shough will be one of the oldest players entering the upcoming NFL Draft, which will take place starting April 24 at Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers.

Despite this uncommon situation, the Louisville Cardinals player knows he has the talent needed to make the jump in his career. He confidently asserts that he has at least 10 more years of football ahead of him.

“You see quarterbacks playing well into their 30s, even better ball late in their 30s,” Shough firmly stated. “More than anything it’s kind of helped me.”

This league has plenty of examples of players who have even exceeded 40 years playing professionally. Tom Brady, a multiple-time Super Bowl champion well into his veteran years, and even Aaron Rodgers, who at 41 is still active and proving that with exceptional physical condition, it’s possible to continue playing at a high level.

Who was the oldest QB selected in the NFL Draft?

The oldest quarterback ever selected in the NFL Draft is Chris Weinke. This event dates back to 2001, when the Carolina Panthers picked the Florida State player, in the fourth round (106th overall pick).

At that time, the Heisman Trophy winner in College Football was 28 years and 264 days old, making him the oldest quarterback ever selected in the NFL Draft.