The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly is sponsored by Bryson Financial.
At the recent Marcedes Lewis Appreciation Day hosted at City Hall in Long Beach, the legendary Long Beach Poly alum said he felt great and planned on continuing his NFL career. Those were big words from anyone, but even bigger words from a man who just celebrated his 40th birthday, and who had already played 18 seasons in the NFL.
Lewis was good to his word, as it was recently announced that he’s signed to the Chicago Bears to make a Chi-Town return in 2024. Lewis will be the first tight end in NFL history to play a 19th season, and could break Jason Witten’s career record for most games played at the position–Witten currently has 271 to Lewis’ 268. Lewis has spent time with the Jaguars, Packers and Bears and is still considered one of the league’s best blocking tight ends. He also has 436 catches for 5,113 yards and 40 touchdowns.
Lewis will be the second longest-tenured active player in the NFL this upcoming season, behind former Packers teammate Aaron Rodgers. While Rodgers has played one more season than Lewis, Lewis currently is the active leader in the NFL in games played.
Lewis is currently No. 28 all-time in NFL history for most games played, and is No. 14 among non-kicker/punters. If he were to play 16 games in the upcoming season, Lewis would move into the top 20 for all-time NFL games played.
“I’ve been blessed to be healthy and to continue playing the game that I love,” he said at his recent Long Beach ceremony.
