Justin Buzzard, a 47-year-old pastor from California, is pursuing a long-dormant college football dream, now suiting up as a defensive end for the San Jose City College Jaguars. His unlikely comeback comes nearly three decades after a career-ending injury derailed his initial collegiate athletic aspirations.
Buzzard has been dedicating months to intense physical training to prepare for his return to the field. He shared that the reception from his significantly younger teammates has been positive, despite his initial apprehension about how they would react to his presence on the roster. "They've been incredible," Buzzard told "Fox & Friends First." "I'm giving them everything I've got, too."
The journey back to football is also a significant undertaking for Buzzard's family life. As a husband of 23 years and father of three, he navigates balancing his on-field ambitions with his responsibilities at home. His wife, who initially expressed reservations about him playing in games, has since become supportive, now marking his games on her calendar.
The idea to return to football was sparked after Buzzard's son showed him a social media video about an older individual playing the sport on the East Coast. This inspiration led him to contact a coach at San Jose City College, resulting in his opportunity to play his former position.
Buzzard views his comeback as extending beyond football and family, also encompassing his faith. He remains focused on staying healthy enough to complete the season and contribute to his team. For those contemplating pursuing a long-held dream, Buzzard advocates for taking risks, stating, "You're either risking or you're rusting as a man. Take risks. Don't rust."