Unveiling the Secrets: Oldest Active NFL Player 2017 Revealed

The oldest active NFL player in 2017 was Matt Bryant, a placekicker for the Atlanta Falcons. He was 42 years old at the start of the 2017 season. Bryant was drafted by the New York Giants in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He has also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, and Miami Dolphins. Bryant is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a one-time All-Pro selection.

Bryant is a valuable asset to the Falcons because of his experience and accuracy. He is one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history, with a career field goal percentage of 84.2%. He is also a reliable extra point kicker, having made 98.4% of his extra point attempts. Bryant is a key part of the Falcons’ special teams unit, and he has helped them to achieve success in recent years.

Bryant is a role model for other players in the NFL. He has shown that it is possible to have a long and successful career in the NFL, even if you are not a superstar. He is a hard worker and a dedicated professional, and he is respected by his teammates and coaches. Bryant is a great example of what it means to be a true professional.

Who is the Oldest Active NFL Player 2017?

The oldest active NFL player in 2017 was Matt Bryant, a placekicker for the Atlanta Falcons. He was 42 years old at the start of the 2017 season.

  • Name: Matt Bryant
  • Position: Placekicker
  • Team: Atlanta Falcons
  • Age: 42
  • Years in the NFL: 18
  • Pro Bowls: 3
  • All-Pros: 1
  • Career Field Goal Percentage: 84.2%
  • Career Extra Point Percentage: 98.4%
  • Role Model: Bryant is a role model for other players in the NFL. He has shown that it is possible to have a long and successful career in the NFL, even if you are not a superstar.

These are just a few of the key aspects that make Matt Bryant the oldest active NFL player in 2017. He is a valuable asset to the Falcons and a respected member of the NFL community.

Name

The connection between “Name: Matt Bryant” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is direct and significant. Matt Bryant is the oldest active NFL player in 2017, and he is a key member of the Atlanta Falcons.

Bryant is a 42-year-old placekicker who has been in the NFL for 18 seasons. He is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a one-time All-Pro selection. Bryant is one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history, with a career field goal percentage of 84.2%. He is also a reliable extra point kicker, having made 98.4% of his extra point attempts.

Bryant is a valuable asset to the Falcons because of his experience and accuracy. He is one of the most respected kickers in the NFL, and he is a key part of the Falcons’ special teams unit.

In conclusion, Matt Bryant is the oldest active NFL player in 2017 because of his longevity and success in the NFL. He is a valuable asset to the Atlanta Falcons, and he is a respected member of the NFL community.

Position

The position of placekicker is a specialized role in American football, requiring a unique set of skills and attributes. In the context of “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?”, the position of placekicker is highly relevant as it pertains to the specific abilities and career trajectory of Matt Bryant, the player in question.

  • Accuracy and Consistency: Placekickers are responsible for scoring points by kicking field goals and extra points. Accuracy and consistency are paramount in this role, as even minor deviations can result in missed attempts and lost points. Matt Bryant has consistently demonstrated exceptional accuracy throughout his career, with a field goal percentage of 84.2% and an extra point percentage of 98.4%.
  • Leg Strength and Distance: Placekickers must possess sufficient leg strength to kick the ball long distances, especially in challenging weather conditions or when attempting field goals from beyond the 50-yard line. Bryant has showcased impressive leg strength over the years, enabling him to make kicks from various distances and angles.
  • Experience and Longevity: The position of placekicker often favors experienced players who have developed a deep understanding of the game and mastered their craft. Bryant’s longevity in the NFL, spanning 18 seasons, is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the sport.
  • Adaptability and Versatility: Placekickers need to be adaptable and versatile, capable of performing in different stadiums, weather conditions, and game situations. Bryant has proven his adaptability by successfully playing for multiple teams throughout his career and adjusting to various team dynamics and coaching styles.

In conclusion, the position of placekicker is integral to understanding who the oldest active NFL player 2017 is. Matt Bryant’s exceptional accuracy, leg strength, experience, adaptability, and versatility have all contributed to his remarkable career longevity and success as a placekicker in the NFL.

Team

The connection between “Team: Atlanta Falcons” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because the Atlanta Falcons are the current team of Matt Bryant, the oldest active NFL player in 2017.

  • Team Loyalty and Longevity: Matt Bryant has been with the Atlanta Falcons since 2009, making him one of the longest-tenured players on the team. His loyalty and dedication to the Falcons have contributed to his longevity in the NFL and his status as the oldest active player.
  • Team Success and Camaraderie: The Atlanta Falcons have experienced success during Bryant’s tenure, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2017. Bryant has been an integral part of the team’s success, and his leadership and experience have been valuable assets to the Falcons.
  • Team Culture and Environment: The Atlanta Falcons have a strong team culture that values hard work, dedication, and camaraderie. This culture has fostered Bryant’s success and longevity, and it has helped him to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career.
  • Team Support and Resources: The Atlanta Falcons provide Bryant with the support and resources he needs to succeed. The team’s medical staff, coaching staff, and front office have all played a role in Bryant’s longevity and success.

In conclusion, the connection between “Team: Atlanta Falcons” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because the Atlanta Falcons have provided Matt Bryant with the environment, support, and resources he needs to succeed and maintain his status as the oldest active player in the NFL.

Age

The connection between “Age: 42” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is direct and significant. Age is a crucial factor in determining the oldest active NFL player, as it represents the player’s longevity and experience in the league. In the case of Matt Bryant, being 42 years old at the start of the 2017 season made him the oldest active player in the NFL that year.

Bryant’s age has played a significant role in his career and has contributed to his status as the oldest active player. His experience and longevity have allowed him to accumulate a wealth of knowledge and skills, giving him an edge over younger players. Bryant’s age has also brought with it a level of maturity and leadership that has benefited his team, the Atlanta Falcons.

While age can sometimes be a limiting factor in sports, Bryant has defied the odds and proven that age is just a number. His dedication to training, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and his passion for the game have enabled him to continue playing at a high level despite his age. Bryant’s longevity and success have inspired many younger players and have shown that it is possible to have a long and successful career in the NFL, even at an advanced age.

In conclusion, the connection between “Age: 42” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because age is a key factor in determining the oldest active player in the NFL. Matt Bryant’s age of 42 at the start of the 2017 season made him the oldest active player that year, and his experience, longevity, and dedication have contributed to his success and status as a respected player in the NFL.

Years in the NFL

The connection between “Years in the NFL: 18” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because the number of years a player has spent in the NFL is a key factor in determining their age and experience. Matt Bryant, the oldest active NFL player in 2017, had been playing in the league for 18 seasons at the start of that season.

  • Experience and Longevity: Years in the NFL is a direct indicator of a player’s experience and longevity in the league. Bryant’s 18 seasons of experience gave him a wealth of knowledge and skills that younger players simply did not have. This experience allowed him to adapt to different playing styles, schemes, and opponents, giving him an edge on the field.
  • Physical and Mental Toughness: Playing in the NFL for 18 seasons requires a tremendous amount of physical and mental toughness. Bryant’s ability to withstand the rigors of the game, including the physical toll it takes on the body and the mental challenges of competing at the highest level for nearly two decades, is a testament to his dedication and resilience.
  • Leadership and Mentorship: As a veteran player with 18 years of experience, Bryant was a natural leader and mentor to younger players on the team. His experience and knowledge of the game were invaluable to his teammates, and his leadership helped to foster a positive and supportive team culture.
  • Adaptability and Versatility: Over the course of 18 seasons, Bryant played under different coaches, in different systems, and with different teammates. His ability to adapt to these changes and continue to perform at a high level speaks to his versatility and adaptability as a player.

In conclusion, the connection between “Years in the NFL: 18” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because it highlights the importance of experience, longevity, leadership, and adaptability in determining the oldest active player in the NFL. Matt Bryant’s 18 seasons of experience in the NFL contributed to his status as the oldest active player in 2017 and made him a valuable asset to his team.

Pro Bowls

The connection between “Pro Bowls: 3” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because Pro Bowl selections are a testament to a player’s skill, consistency, and recognition by their peers. Matt Bryant, the oldest active NFL player in 2017, has been selected to three Pro Bowls throughout his career.

  • Recognition of Excellence: Pro Bowl selections are a prestigious honor bestowed upon the best players in the NFL. Being selected to three Pro Bowls indicates that Bryant has consistently performed at a high level and is considered one of the top placekickers in the league.
  • Consistency and Longevity: Making three Pro Bowls requires sustained excellence over multiple seasons. Bryant’s Pro Bowl selections are a reflection of his ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career, despite the physical and mental challenges of playing in the NFL.
  • Special Teams Impact: Placekickers play a crucial role on special teams, and Bryant’s Pro Bowl selections highlight his impact in this area. His ability to consistently make field goals and extra points has been a major asset to his team and has contributed to their success.
  • Respect from Peers: Pro Bowl selections are voted on by players, coaches, and fans. Bryant’s three Pro Bowl selections indicate that he is highly respected by his peers and is recognized as one of the best placekickers in the NFL.

In conclusion, the connection between “Pro Bowls: 3” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because Pro Bowl selections are a testament to Matt Bryant’s skill, consistency, and impact on special teams. His three Pro Bowl selections are a reflection of his longevity, excellence, and the respect he has earned from his peers.

All-Pros

The connection between “All-Pros: 1” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” lies in the recognition andthat Matt Bryant has received throughout his career. Being named an All-Pro indicates that Bryant is considered one of the best placekickers in the NFL, and his selection to the All-Pro team in 2016 further solidifies his status as an elite player at his position.

All-Pro selections are a testament to a player’s consistent performance and impact on their team. Bryant’s selection to the All-Pro team in 2016 was based on his outstanding season, during which he converted 34 of 37 field goal attempts (91.9%) and all 32 of his extra point attempts. His accuracy and reliability as a placekicker were crucial to the Atlanta Falcons’ success that season.

In conclusion, the connection between “All-Pros: 1” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is significant because it highlights Matt Bryant’s status as an elite placekicker and one of the best players at his position in the NFL. His All-Pro selection is a recognition of his consistent performance, accuracy, and impact on his team.

Career Field Goal Percentage

The connection between “Career Field Goal Percentage: 84.2%” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” is highly relevant because it showcases the remarkable accuracy and consistency of Matt Bryant, the oldest active NFL player in 2017. Bryant’s exceptional field goal percentage highlights his skill, experience, and impact on his team.

  • Precision and Accuracy: Bryant’s career field goal percentage of 84.2% is a testament to his precision and accuracy as a placekicker. His ability to consistently make field goals from various distances and angles has been a major asset to his team and has contributed to their success.
  • Clutch Performance: Field goals often play a crucial role in determining the outcome of close games, and Bryant’s high field goal percentage indicates his ability to perform under pressure and deliver in clutch situations. His reliability and consistency have made him a valuable player for his team, especially in high-stakes games.
  • Experience and Longevity: Bryant’s career field goal percentage is a reflection of his experience and longevity in the NFL. His ability to maintain such a high level of accuracy over the course of his long career demonstrates his dedication, hard work, and commitment to his craft.
  • Impact on Team Success: Placekickers play a significant role in a team’s overall success, and Bryant’s high field goal percentage has been a major contributing factor to his team’s achievements. His ability to consistently score points and convert field goals has helped his team win games and advance in the playoffs.

In conclusion, Matt Bryant’s career field goal percentage of 84.2% is a key indicator of his skill, consistency, and impact on his team. His exceptional accuracy and reliability as a placekicker have made him one of the most respected and successful players at his position in the NFL.

Career Extra Point Percentage

The connection between “Career Extra Point Percentage: 98.4%” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” lies in the exceptional accuracy and reliability of Matt Bryant, a placekicker for the Atlanta Falcons. Bryant’s remarkable extra point percentage is a testament to his skill, consistency, and impact on his team.

Extra points are crucial in NFL games, as they provide teams with an opportunity to score an additional point after a touchdown. Bryant’s career extra point percentage of 98.4% indicates his ability to consistently convert these attempts, giving his team a significant advantage in scoring.

Bryant’s accuracy and reliability as an extra point kicker have been instrumental in his team’s success. His ability to consistently make extra points has contributed to the Falcons’ overall scoring output and has helped them win games, especially in close contests where every point matters.

Furthermore, Bryant’s longevity and experience in the NFL have played a significant role in his exceptional extra point percentage. His ability to maintain such a high level of accuracy over the course of his long career demonstrates his dedication, hard work, and commitment to his craft.

In conclusion, Matt Bryant’s career extra point percentage of 98.4% is a key indicator of his skill, consistency, and impact on his team. His exceptional accuracy and reliability as an extra point kicker have made him one of the most respected and successful players at his position in the NFL.

Role Model

The connection between “Role Model: Bryant is a role model for other players in the NFL. He has shown that it is possible to have a long and successful career in the NFL, even if you are not a superstar.” and “who is the oldest active NFL player 2017?” lies in the significance of Bryant’s longevity and achievements as an example for other players, particularly those who may not be considered elite or highly-rated.

Bryant’s journey in the NFL showcases the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent and gradually established himself as one of the most reliable and consistent placekickers in the NFL. His success story serves as an inspiration to players who may not possess exceptional physical abilities or athleticism but aspire to have a long and fulfilling career in the league.

Bryant’s role model status extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. He is known for his professionalism, work ethic, and positive attitude. He consistently mentors younger players and provides guidance to those seeking to improve their skills and performance. His experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to his team and the NFL community as a whole.

In conclusion, Bryant’s role as a role model is an integral part of his identity as the oldest active NFL player in 2017. His longevity, achievements, and positive influence on others demonstrate that success in the NFL is not solely defined by individual statistics or accolades but also by the ability to inspire and motivate others.

FAQs on “Who is the Oldest Active NFL Player 2017?”

This section provides brief answers to frequently asked questions regarding the oldest active NFL player in 2017.

Question 1: Who is the oldest active NFL player in 2017?

Matt Bryant, a placekicker for the Atlanta Falcons, was the oldest active NFL player in 2017 at the age of 42.

Question 2: What is Matt Bryant’s career field goal percentage?

Bryant has a career field goal percentage of 84.2%, demonstrating his exceptional accuracy and consistency as a placekicker.

Question 3: What is Matt Bryant’s career extra point percentage?

Bryant has a career extra point percentage of 98.4%, highlighting his reliability and effectiveness in converting extra points.

Question 4: How many Pro Bowl selections does Matt Bryant have?

Bryant has been selected to three Pro Bowls throughout his career, recognizing his outstanding performance and contributions as a placekicker.

Question 5: How many All-Pro selections does Matt Bryant have?

Bryant has been named an All-Pro once in his career, further solidifying his status as an elite placekicker in the NFL.

Question 6: What is Matt Bryant’s role beyond his on-field performance?

Bryant serves as a role model for other players, demonstrating that longevity and success in the NFL are attainable through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

In summary, Matt Bryant’s exceptional skills, consistency, and dedication have made him the oldest active NFL player in 2017. His achievements and positive influence on others serve as an inspiration to players and fans alike.

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Tips on Longevity and Success in the NFL

The journey of Matt Bryant, the oldest active NFL player in 2017, offers valuable insights and tips for aspiring athletes and individuals seeking longevity and success in their respective fields.

Tip 1: Embrace Hard Work and DedicationBryant’s career exemplifies the importance of hard work and unwavering dedication. Despite entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent, he relentlessly pursued his passion and honed his skills through countless hours of practice and training.Tip 2: Maintain Consistency and AccuracyAs a placekicker, Bryant’s exceptional field goal and extra point percentages underscore the significance of consistency and accuracy. By meticulously refining his technique and maintaining a high level of focus, he has become one of the most reliable and dependable players in the NFL.Tip 3: Seek Mentorship and GuidanceBryant acknowledges the invaluable guidance he received from mentors and coaches throughout his career. Seeking out experienced individuals who can provide support, advice, and constructive criticism is crucial for personal and professional growth.Tip 4: Adapt to Changing CircumstancesThe NFL landscape is constantly evolving, and Bryant’s longevity is a testament to his ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it’s adjusting to new teammates, schemes, or playing conditions, adaptability is essential for sustained success.Tip 5: Maintain a Positive AttitudeBryant’s positive attitude and unwavering determination have been instrumental in his long and successful career. Approaching challenges with optimism and resilience can help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.Tip 6: Value Teamwork and CamaraderieBryant emphasizes the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in the NFL. Building strong relationships with teammates, coaches, and support staff can foster a positive and supportive environment that contributes to overall success.Tip 7: Prioritize Health and Well-beingMaintaining physical and mental well-being is paramount for longevity in any profession. Bryant takes meticulous care of his body through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest, ensuring that he is always ready to perform at his best.

By embracing these tips and emulating the qualities of Matt Bryant, individuals can increase their chances of achieving longevity and success in their chosen endeavors.

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Conclusion

Matt Bryant’s journey as the oldest active NFL player in 2017 stands as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and unwavering perseverance. His exceptional skills, remarkable consistency, and positive influence on others serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and individuals seeking longevity and success in their chosen fields.

Bryant’s story highlights the importance of embracing challenges, adapting to changing circumstances, and prioritizing both physical and mental well-being. By emulating his qualities and embracing the tips outlined in this article, individuals can increase their chances of achieving their goals and making a meaningful impact in their respective endeavors.


Unveiling the Secrets: Oldest Active NFL Player 2017 Revealed