Marcedes Lewis Could Pass Tom Brady This Sunday

Denver, Colorado — Marcedes Lewis, 41, has been elevated to the active roster for the Denver Broncos’ game against the Houston Texans this Sunday. Lewis, a tight end signed to the Broncos’ practice squad earlier this week, has a chance to make NFL history by surpassing Tom Brady in the record books.

During his 23-year career, Brady made headlines as a quarterback, but he is also recognized as a pass-catcher after recording one reception for six yards in the 2018 season. This places him second in all-time receiving yards for players over 40. As it stands, only three players have recorded positive receiving yards after turning 40: Jerry Rice, Brady, and Lewis. If Lewis can accumulate just five receiving yards on Sunday, he will surpass Brady.

“It’s surreal, still trying to take it all in, but I’m really proud today,” Lewis said about the opportunity. Previously, he recorded 29 receiving yards in 2023 as a member of the Chicago Bears. In the 2024 season, he caught just one pass for two yards.

Lewis first entered the NFL as the 28th overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006. This Sunday marks the start of his 20th season, setting an NFL record for tight ends in league history. He has played 285 games, surpassing the previous record of 271. If he plays all remaining games this season, he could reach 294 games played, placing him 17th in NFL history.

Lewis, who turned 41 on May 19, is now the second-oldest active player in the NFL, just behind Brady. Broncos head coach Sean Payton commented on Lewis’ impressive conditioning, stating, “He’s a tremendous blocker, and he’s in great shape.”

Lewis’s role with the Broncos comes as the team is missing key players due to injury. Nate Adkins has a knee issue, prompting the need for Lewis to fill in during the game, especially against a formidable Texans’ defense.

Payton expressed admiration for Lewis, saying, “I’m glad he’s here. He’s a tremendous leader” and indicated that they have confidence in Lewis after a solid week of practice.

The Broncos are gearing up for the match, and if Lewis can reach that milestone on the field, it will add another chapter to a long and distinguished career in the NFL.