Feb 6, 2023; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton speaks at the UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports Feb 6, 2023; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton speaks at the UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

There are some positions in the NFL that don’t always require an exceptional amount of speed and athleticism like quarterback, punter, or kicker. But defensive back is certainly not one of those positions. As a result, it’s not terribly common to see an NFL defensive back approach their mid-30s, but that’s exactly the case for Kareem Jackson, but his head coach insists he can still play.

At 35 years old, Kareem Jackson is expected to be the oldest defensive back in the NFL this upcoming season, but Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has plenty of praise for the veteran player and believes he is an important part of the Broncos’ defense.

“He’s experienced and he’s got really good instincts,” Payton said according to Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette. “At his age, it’s impressive he’s been healthy. Then you look at pitch count, what’s the vision and all of those things. That was exciting for us and for him.”

Two defensive backs older than Jackson played last year: Devin McCourty and Josh Norman. However, McCourty has since announced his retirement and Norman is not under contract with any team after only playing two games last season.

It’s rare to see a player Jackson’s age thriving as a defensive back in the league, but it sounds like Payton is confident in him heading into this season.

[Denver Gazette]