NFList

Young leads list of players thriving since turning 35

By Joel Buchsbaum, Contributing editor
As published in print Oct. 11, 1999

49ers QB Steve Young

We asked NFL insiders to name the active players (excluding kickers) who have done the best job since their 35th birthdays. Here is a compilation of their responses, which were made anonymously.

1. QB Steve Young, 49ers — Just turned 38 but is coming off one of his best seasons. Has led the league in passer rating in two of the past three seasons. Is still quite mobile and a very accurate passer.

2. OL Bruce Matthews, Titans — Is 38 years old and was picked for the last three Pro Bowls since turning 35.

3. QB Dan Marino, Dolphins — Not the player he was before his Achilles injury but is still one of the top half-dozen quarterbacks in football.

4. DE Bruce Smith, Bills — Is 36 years old and still may be the best pass-rushing end in football, although he picks his spots now.

5. CB Darrell Green, Redskins — At 39 years old, is still one of the game’s better corners. Has not missed a game the past six seasons.

6. QB Warren Moon, Chiefs — Still can throw the ball better than 90 percent of NFL quarterbacks, even though he is well past his 40th birthday.

7. DE Chris Doleman, Vikings — Recorded 38 sacks in the last three seasons, all with the 49ers.

The most remarkable oldies of all time:

QB-PK George Blanda — Almost made it to age 50.

DE Jim Marshall — Never missed a game and never seemed to lose speed.

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