Marcedes Lewis is continuing his unique journey in the NFL at 41 years old. Many years removed from being a player who could affect games catching the ball. He is still making a mark by his ability to pass and run block. Which has created his longevity in the NFL now going on year 20. He was a first round pick at number 28 overall in the 2006 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
New #Broncos TE Marcedes Lewis, going on Year 20, told us today he’s never had surgery.
— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) October 29, 2025
Talked to a couple guys in locker room about how crazy that is.
Lewis: “My mental fortitude is what pushes me forward to be here, standing in front of you, right now.” pic.twitter.com/cMBrT9Zhbi
Before his NFL journey started, Lewis was one of the best tight ends in college football. He was a John Mackey award winner in 2005 at UCLA as the best tight end in the nation. That year he had 58 catches for 741 yards and 10 touchdowns. As tight ends were not as versatile in those days as they are now. He was dominant catching the ball when needed and helping pass block for Drew Olson. Maurice Jones-Drew and Chris Markey also combined for 1,500 rush yards that year as a one-two punch.
We are @MarcedesLewis89 days away from UCLA Football.
— Ryan Gesas (@Geeseyy) August 15, 2022
Sep 17, 2005: #19 Marcedes Lewis is wide open for a 20 yard TD. Bruins upset #21 Oklahoma in front of a packed Rose Bowl. Notice the U-C-L-A chants during the PAT.
Lewis is 2nd in all-time receiving TDs for the Bruins (21). pic.twitter.com/U1Ewkfx7fU
Lewis went into the NFL and displayed his blocking skills more in his first three years. Before breaking out in year four with a 700 yard and 10 touchdown season, concluding with his only Pro Bowl appearance. He would go on to play 12 seasons with the Jaguars before latching on to the Green Bay Packers for five seasons. Often having high praise from future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Lewis would always come in, do his job of blocking, catching an occasional touchdown and mentoring the young guys on the team.
Blocking has kept Marcedes Lewis in the league for 20 seasons — so long that when he was a rookie, he did the Oklahoma Drill in Jags camp, when @FredTaylorMade told him, “You keep blocking like that, you’re gonna be in the league for a long time.” Lewis said Taylor texted him… pic.twitter.com/NC3hVceUae
— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) October 29, 2025
A true professional from start to finish, Lewis is winding down his career. He spent two seasons with the Bears before recently catching on to the Denver Broncos. Only called upon in two and three tight end sets. Never complains and just comes in to dominate the block. One of the UCLA greats and always will be. It is awesome to see the impact that he is still having. With UCLA forever imprinted on his legacy.