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A 55-year-old attempts to become oldest man to ever play college football
By Jason Hall
Published:
Joe Thomas Sr., a 55-year-old South Carolina State student, is attempting to become the oldest man to ever play college football, according to Campus Rush.
Despite not seeing a carry in this week’s practice, he’s still hoping to see the field during South Carolina State’s final game.
“I believe that if the coaches looked past my age and just let me play football, I’d steal someone’s position,” Thomas said.
Thomas, originally intended to play football alongside his son, Green Bay Packers linebacker Joe Thomas Jr., prior to his jump to the NFL two years ago. But he suffered a torn ACL and MCL in 2013 after colliding with a drunk driver. The father and son never had the opportunity to practice together.
“At first, I thought it would be really weird,” Joe Jr. said. “When my teammates found out, they’d say things like, ‘Your dad is coming for your spot.’ But he’s a grown man, and I wasn’t going to get in the way of his dreams. I’m happy for him now.”
Thomas is awaiting an NCAA waiver to clear him academically and permit him to dress during South Carolina State’s home games.
You can read more about Thomas’ goal of becoming the oldest player in college football history here.
Jason covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
