10 Youngest NFL Players of All Time (2024)

Football is no stranger to seeing young stars rise in the ranks and reach incredible heights. From Chase Young, who was drafted at the age of 21, to Patrick Mahomes II's phenomenal first season with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2018 - there are countless examples of players that have taken the league by storm despite their relative youth.

But which current and former NFL athletes hold the honor of being among some of the youngest players ever? We're taking a look into this striking history to find out who was truly "born ready" when it came to becoming an NFL player - starting with ten amazing stories about some of football's greatest prodigies!

Ready to see if your favorite player made it onto our list? Let's find out!

10. Chase Young

Chase Young, one of the youngest NFL players, was drafted at just 21. Despite his age, he's already a dominant force as a defensive end for the Washington Football Team.

Now at 24, Young's quickness and strength have earned him multiple accolades, including the Chuck Bednarik Award in college. With immense talent and dedication, he's a rising star in the NFL.

9. Cordale Flott

Cordale Flott, a young NFL player, defies expectations. At just 21 years old, he was drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft by the New York Giants.

Though early in his professional football career, Flott has already displayed athleticism and effective communication with his teammates. In part due to his skill set and positive attitude, Flott is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Expect to hear much more about him as he continues to dominate.

8. Patrick Queen

Patrick Queen, one of the youngest NFL players, made headlines when drafted by the Baltimore Ravens at just 21 years old in the 2020 NFL Draft.

As a standout linebacker for the Ravens, Queen's spryness, and impressive resume from Louisiana State University have solidified him as a bright talent with a promising career ahead.

7. Nick Cross

Nick Cross is an NFL player to watch. He was drafted at just 21, also making him one of the youngest players to ever join the league.

Nick Cross is a Safety for theIndianapolis Colts. Known for his incredible nimbleness, fast feet, and versatility, he's a valuable asset. With a growing following, he has the potential to be a recognized young NFL star.

6. Juju Smith-Schuster

Juju Smith-Schuster, known for explosive plays and clutch performances on the football field, is one of the youngest NFL players. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers at 20, he's now 26 and already one of the league's most dynamic players.

As a versatile wide receiver, Juju's speed and athleticism make him a threat anywhere on the field. He was a key player for the Steelers since his rookie season, earning a Pro Bowl selection in year two. After winning Super Bowl LVII with the Kansas City Chiefs, he will be joining the New England Patriots beginning in 2023.

Off the field, Juju loves video games and social media. He's equally comfortable on the field or behind a controller. Despite his youth, Juju has made an indelible mark on the NFL and will undoubtedly remain a force to be reckoned with.

5. Kyle Pitts

At only 20 years old, Kyle Pitts became one of the youngest to play football for the NFL when he was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Currently, Pitts is still just 22 years old and is quickly making a name for himself as a talented tight end in the league.

Pitts played college football at the University of Florida where he was a standout player and even earned the nickname "Unicorn" for his unique combination of next-level size, speed, and athleticism.

Widely known for being a matchup nightmare for defenses, Pitts is expected to have a bright future in the NFL and has already become a fan favorite with the Falcons.

With his impressive skills and undeniable talent, it's clear that Pitts is just getting started and has the potential to become one of the greatest tight ends in the league.

4. Elmer Angsman

Elmer Angsman may not be a household name in NFL history, but he was certainly noteworthy for being one of the league's youngest players at the time of his draft. At just 20 years old, Angsman was selected by the Chicago Cardinals in the 1946 NFL Draft.

Angsman passed at 76 years old in 2002. He was a halfback during his playing days and spent his entire four-year career with the Cardinals.

Although he didn't have the longevity of some of his contemporaries, Angsman was known for his quick feet and agility on the field. Off the field, he was remembered as a humble and gracious individual who never took his talent for granted.

3. Danielle Hunter

Danielle Hunter, born on October 29, 1994, was only 20 years old when he was drafted into the NFL in 2015 by the Minnesota Vikings.

Playing as a defensive end for the Vikings, Hunter has become a formidable force in the league due to his incredible athletic ability. He is widely known for his impressive stats, being the youngest player in NFL history to record 50 career sacks.

Despite his young age, Hunter has already made a name for himself in the NFL as one of the league's top players. His talent has earned him numerous awards and accolades, making him a player to watch in future seasons.

2. Tremaine Edmunds

At just 19 years old, Tremaine Edmunds was drafted into the NFL in 2018. Now at just 25 years old, he is a seasoned veteran within the league.

Edmunds is a linebacker for the Buffalo Bills and he has made quite a name for himself in the NFL. He is known for his broad range of skills, from pass rushing to defending the run, and has been a key player in the Bills' defense.

Standing at 6'5" and weighing 250 pounds, Edmunds is a force to be reckoned with on the field. Despite his young age, he has shown incredible maturity and dedication to his craft. It's no wonder why he is widely recognized as one of the top linebackers in the league.

1. Amobi Okoye

Amobi Okoye made history as the youngest player ever drafted by the NFL in 2007, at the age of 19. Now, at 36 years old, Okoye remains a respected figure in American football.

His position on the field has been defensive tackle, having played for teams like the Texans, Bears, and Cowboys. Okoye's journey began at the University of Louisville, where he excelled playing college football before going pro.

As the youngest player in the NFL, he is widely known for his strength and dexterity, making him an incredible force on the field. His dedication to the sport has set a standard for many others who pursue a career in the NFL, and his legacy is one that will always be remembered.

Does Your Athlete Have Dreams to Make It to the Big Leagues?

Having discussed the 10 youngest NFL players to ever make it to the league, it's evident that young talent is a factor in carving out a successful career in professional football.

The growing popularity of youth football leagues continues to build career opportunities for many current NFL players. Young stars drive the engine of professional football.

Parents of youth athletes aspiring to become the next Amobi Okoye or Danielle Hunter can find local youth football leagues and camps to hone their athletes' skills and train for success.Help your child become the next great rookie on your hometown football team! Find a league, camp, or tournament near you