tense conclusion When Marcedes Lewis scored his first touchdown of the year in Sunday’s victory over the Cardinals, his jubilant teammates had an odd reaction.

Following Lewis’s 1-yard touchdown reception from Justin Fields, Bears players let out dog barks in observance of the 18-year-old veteran known by his nickname, “Big Dog.”

In the words of coach Matt Eberflus, “The guys love him for who he is.” “This man is truly exceptional. He’s led the tight end room admirably and contributes to the offence and the football club as a whole. He’s been a great sounding board for me on numerous occasions.”

Lewis became the oldest player in Bears history to score a touchdown on Sunday, making history. Dave Krieg, the 38-year-old quarterback who scored a 1-yard touchdown run on December 8, 1996, in a 35-9 victory over the St. Louis Rams, was surpassed by the 39-year-old.

In addition, Lewis became the second-oldest player in NFL history to catch a touchdown pass. The only player older than Lewis was Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice, who, when playing for the Seahawks in 2004, snagged a 12-yard touchdown throw from Matt Hasselbeck at the age of 42.

Christmas Eve’s touchdown reception for Lewis was his first since Christmas Day of last year, when he caught a 1-yard touchdown ball from Aaron Rodgers during his Packers career.

With 266 games played and 225 starts, Lewis is the most active player in the NFL. Along with Jason Witten and Tony Gonzalez, he is one of just three tight ends in league history to start 200 games and catch 400 passes. He has played the most seasons (18) of any tight end.