With Joe Flacco traded to the Bengals and immediately named starter, Thursday night brings a rare sight: Flacco versus Aaron Rodgers, two quarterbacks past 40, a matchup seen only three times before—in 2020’s Brady-Brees clashes. The piece notes another such meeting could come four weeks later and cautions that Tom Brady’s longevity has skewed expectations. While some veterans aim to play into their 40s, erosion looms; Russell Wilson’s path may be as a backup. Matthew Stafford and Geno Smith emerge as candidates to reach 40, while most starters are in their 20s, making future 40-on-40 duels uncommon.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.