Justin Buzzard, a 47-year-old pastor from California, has defied odds and returned to college football after nearly three decades. His journey began when his son showed him a video of an elderly man playing the sport, inspiring Buzzard to reconsider his athletic aspirations. After years away from competitive football, he successfully made the San José City College Jaguars roster as a defensive end. The former high school and college player had initially been sidelined by injuries in the 1990s but is now preparing for the 2026 season. Buzzard's unique comeback story involves rebuilding his physical conditioning, demonstrating his abilities to younger players, and earning a roster spot on the team despite the significant age gap between him and many of his teammates. His family had initially expressed concerns about the physical risks involved in returning to contact football, but Buzzard has continued with the program and aims to compete rather than serve as an inspirational presence. The pastor's return to college football is taking place alongside his ministry work as a husband, father of three, and the founder and lead pastor of a church.