Quick Answer

Quarterback Chris Weinke is usually cited as the oldest player drafted in the modern era: Carolina took him in the 4th round in 2001, when he was 28.

Who Was the Oldest Player Ever Drafted?

Chris Weinke spent six seasons in the Toronto Blue Jays' minor-league system before enrolling at Florida State in 1997. He won the 2000 Heisman Trophy at 28, the oldest winner ever, and the Panthers drafted him 106th overall in 2001.

The draft has no upper age limit. Players arriving from the military or another sport are the usual exceptions to the 21–23 age range.