Early Life and College Career Lewis was born in Long Beach, California. He attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete in football and basketball. He was highly recruited for his athletic potential. He played college football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). During his time with the Bruins from 2002 to 2005, Lewis became one of the top tight ends in the nation. He earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors in his senior year (2005) after recording 58 receptions for 671 yards and 10 touchdowns. He finished his collegiate career with 126 receptions for 1,571 yards and 21 touchdowns, setting a school record for receiving touchdowns by a tight end.
Professional Career
Jacksonville Jaguars (2006–2017) Lewis was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars with the 28th overall pick in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a reliable blocker and a steady receiving threat for the Jaguars. Over his 12 seasons with the team, Lewis became a cornerstone of their offense, admired for his consistency and leadership. His most productive receiving season came in 2010, when he recorded 58 receptions for 700 yards and 10 touchdowns. This standout performance earned him his first and only Pro Bowl selection and a Second-Team All-Pro nod. Lewis became a beloved figure in Jacksonville, known for his toughness and commitment. He ultimately set the Jaguars franchise record for most games played, appearing in 170 games for the team. He finished his Jaguars tenure with 37 receiving touchdowns, which ranked him second among tight ends in franchise history.
Green Bay Packers (2018–2022) In 2018, Lewis signed with the Green Bay Packers. In Green Bay, he transitioned into a role primarily focused on his elite blocking ability, particularly valuable in the Packers' run-heavy scheme under coach Matt LaFleur. He served as a crucial lead blocker for running backs like Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon and provided a veteran presence in the locker room. Despite a reduced receiving workload, he remained a reliable target in short-yardage and red-zone situations. He spent five seasons with the Packers, playing a significant role in their offensive success and multiple playoff appearances.
Chicago Bears (2023) In 2023, Lewis signed with the Chicago Bears, reuniting with former Packers offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, who was then the Bears' offensive coordinator. He continued to embrace his role as a blocking tight end and veteran leader, extending his impressive NFL career into his 18th season. At 39 years old, he was one of the oldest active non-special teams players in the league, further cementing his reputation for longevity and durability.
Playing Style and Legacy Marcedes Lewis is widely regarded as one of the premier blocking tight ends of his era, earning him the nickname "Big Dog." His powerful physique, technical precision, and relentless effort as a blocker have been a constant throughout his career. While his receiving statistics might not place him among the top pass-catching tight ends, his contributions to the running game and his ability to convert critical short-yardage catches have been invaluable to his teams. His remarkable longevity and consistent performance over nearly two decades in a physically demanding position are testaments to his dedication, professionalism, and conditioning. He is a respected veteran throughout the league, known for his leadership, mentor role, and commitment to team success.
Awards and Honors
- Pro Bowl (2010)
- Second-Team All-Pro (2010)
- Jacksonville Jaguars All-Time Games Played Leader (170 games)
- UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame (Pending consideration or future induction)
NFL Records and Milestones
- One of the few non-special teams players in NFL history to play 18 or more seasons.
- Holds the Jacksonville Jaguars franchise record for most games played.