The NFL is a league that celebrates both experience and youthful talent.
Some of the most impressive records in its history have been achieved by players who were barely out of their teens.
These young athletes burst onto the scene and made their mark early, showcasing their potential to become future legends.
In this article, we focus on the youngest players to set incredible records, highlighting their achievements and the moments that defined them.
NFL Records Achieved at the Youngest Ages
Youth can often mean raw talent and fearless determination. These NFL stars broke records at an age when most players are just starting their careers.
| Record | Player | Team | Date | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Youngest player to have a 300+ yard passing game | Sam Darnold | New York Jets | September 16, 2018 | 21 years, 103 days |
| Youngest player to start in a Super Bowl | Bryan Bulaga | Green Bay Packers | February 6, 2011 | 21 years, 322 days |
| Youngest player to return a punt for a TD | Dexter McCluster | Kansas City Chiefs | September 13, 2010 | 21 years, 19 days |
| Youngest player to return an interception for TD | DeAngelo Hall | Atlanta Falcons | January 2, 2005 | 21 years, 44 days |
| Youngest player to throw a TD pass (modern era) | Tommy Maddox | Denver Broncos | November 30, 1992 | 21 years, 89 days |
| Youngest player to throw a TD pass | Arnie Herber | Green Bay Packers | September 21, 1930 | 20 years, 172 days |
| Youngest player to return a kickoff for a TD | Andy Livingston | Chicago Bears | December 13, 1964 | 20 years, 53 days |
Stories Behind the Records
Sam Darnold (Youngest 300+ Yard Passing Game)
On September 16, 2018, Sam Darnold, at 21 years and 103 days old, threw for over 300 yards in a game for the New York Jets. This performance showcased his potential as a rising star in the league.
Bryan Bulaga (Youngest Super Bowl Starter)
Bryan Bulaga started in Super Bowl XLV on February 6, 2011, for the Green Bay Packers at the age of 21 years and 322 days. His presence on the biggest stage at such a young age was a testament to his talent and maturity.
Dexter McCluster (Youngest Punt Return Touchdown)
Dexter McCluster made history on September 13, 2010, returning a punt for a touchdown for the Kansas City Chiefs at 21 years and 19 days. His agility and quick decision-making were on full display.
DeAngelo Hall (Youngest Interception Return Touchdown)
At 21 years and 44 days, DeAngelo Hall intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown on January 2, 2005, playing for the Atlanta Falcons. This record highlighted his instinctive defensive skills.
Tommy Maddox (Youngest Passing Touchdown in Modern Era)
On November 30, 1992, Tommy Maddox, at 21 years and 89 days old, threw a touchdown pass for the Denver Broncos. This record marked the start of a career defined by persistence and adaptability, setting a standard for young quarterbacks in the modern NFL.
Arnie Herber (Youngest Passing Touchdown)
On September 21, 1930, Arnie Herber threw a touchdown pass for the Green Bay Packers at 20 years and 172 days old. His early success paved the way for a Hall of Fame career.
Andy Livingston (Youngest Touchdown)
On December 13, 1964, Andy Livingston scored a touchdown for the Chicago Bears at just 20 years and 53 days old. This remarkable feat made him a trailblazer for young players in the NFL.
These records shine a spotlight on the fearless determination and extraordinary skill of the NFL’s youngest stars. They remind us that age is no barrier to achieving greatness on the football field.