At 48 years old, Justin Buzzard is defying conventional expectations by playing as a defensive end for the San Jose City College Jaguars, making him the oldest active college football player in the United States. Buzzard, who marked his 48th birthday on September 14, balances his athletic pursuit with his roles as a full-time pastor and father of three in the Bay Area.

Buzzard’s return to college football came after a 30-year hiatus. His previous playing experience was brief; he redshirted for one year at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, before injuries ended his early football career. Having since devoted himself to ministry as the founder and lead pastor of Garden City Church, a nondenominational congregation in San Jose, Buzzard approached the decision to return to the field as a personal challenge tied to his philosophy of embracing risks to avoid stagnation.

“If you’re not risking, you’re rusting,” Buzzard said, explaining the mindset that motivated his comeback. He credits a video of Tom Green, a 60-year-old cancer survivor who tried to join a Division III college football team, as the initial spark. After sharing the video with his sons, Buzzard’s eldest encouraged him to follow that example, which led Buzzard to reach out to the San Jose City College football coaches this summer.

The coaching staff welcomed the idea, though Buzzard emphasizes that he does not receive any special treatment in practices or games despite being significantly older than his teammates. To prepare for the season, Buzzard increased his weight by 10 pounds and committed to rigorous training, including running bleachers at a local high school, while maintaining a full 12-credit course load alongside his pastoral work and family responsibilities.

During the season opener on August 29 against College of the Redwoods, Buzzard made a notable contribution by helping to collapse the opposing quarterback’s pocket, paving the way for a key tackle by his teammate. His presence on the field has drawn attention beyond the game itself, inspiring messages from fans and fellow players alike. Buzzard said one opposing player remarked after the game that his own father could not have matched Buzzard’s endurance and determination.

Buzzard hopes his story encourages others to take chances and step outside their comfort zones, regardless of their interests or circumstances. “I want people to just try new things they may have held back on because they’re scared,” he said. “It’s OK to risk rejection.” Through his example, Buzzard underscores that effort and persistence can transcend age and expectation.