Justin Zimmer

Justin Zimmer's Biography

Justin Zimmer was born on October 23, 1992, in America, and he is best remembered for his dynamic career as a professional football defensive tackle. He spent seven lively seasons battling on the field, enhancing the National Football League (NFL) with his athletic ability and spirited performances.

Zimmer’s football journey began at Ferris State University where he played for the Ferris State Bulldogs for four seasons. During this time, he compiled a total of 216 tackles, 26 sacks, 48.5 tackles for a loss, one interception, one touchdown, 14 pass deflections, nine forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and three blocked kicks. Zimmer’s exceptional talent and determination saw him recognized as a three-time selection for first-team All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, a two-time Division II All-American, and a three-time Division II Academic All-American.

Upon his graduation, the ambitious athlete signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent on May 6, 2016. It was the start of a series of signings and departures which saw him switch teams a number of times. Nevertheless, Zimmer continued to showcase his skills and resilience every time he hit the field. His journey saw him play for notable teams such as the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints of the NFL.

He also graced the fields of the Canadian Football League, where he signed with the Montreal Alouettes in September 2017. He started off on the practice roster before being promoted to the active roster. Following his NFL career, Zimmer found himself back in the Buffalo Bills where he was elevated to the active roster but then occasionally reverted to the practice squad.

Throughout his career, Zimmer has had a number of highlights that underline his impact on the field. Notably, in Week 8 against the New England Patriots, Zimmer made a significant play by dislodging the ball from Patriots quarterback Cam Newton’s hands on a quarterback keeper. This pivotal moment helped seal a 24-21 Bills win.

Another memorable moment was during the Bills’ Divisional Round matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Zimmer recorded a top speed of 18.45 miles per hour on an interception return, which was the second fastest by a Defensive Tackle during the 2020-21 season.

Towards the end of his career, Zimmer was hit by a spate of injuries that sidelined him for extended periods. During the 2021 season, he suffered a season-ending knee injury and was placed on injured reserve on November 11. This didn’t deter Zimmer’s spirit as he returned to the Bills’ practice squad after becoming a free agent.

In November 2022, he was signed by the Miami Dolphins off the Bills’ practice squad. But again, injuries followed him and he was placed on a season-ending injured reserve with an undisclosed injury in December 2022. Despite the setbacks, Zimmer’s career is a testament to his unwavering resilience and commitment to the sport. His legacy is etched in his steadfast performances by displaying integrity and honor on the field.