J. D. DiRenzo

J. D. DiRenzo (born July 27, 1998) is an American football offensive tackle for the Louisville Kings of the United Football League (UFL). He played college football for the Sacred Heart Pioneers and Rutgers Scarlet Knights and was signed by the Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2023.

Early life DiRenzo was born on July 27, 1998, in Hammonton, New Jersey. His grandfather, Dan DiRenzo, was reportedly a member of the Philadelphia Eagles during their 1948 and 1949 championship run. He attended St. Joseph Academy and helped them win state championships in 2013, 2014 and 2015 while being a four-year letterman; he was selected third-team all-state and was first-team All-South Jersey and first-team all-conference in his senior year.

College career DiRenzo began his collegiate career with the Sacred Heart Pioneers, appearing in no games as a true freshman in 2017.

In the spring 2021 season, postponed from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, DiRenzo started all five games and was named first-team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), first-team all-conference and All-New England as he helped Sacred Heart reach the FCS playoffs while winning the NEC championship. He started all 12 games – nine at left guard and three at left tackle – and was named the team's offensive most valuable player. He was invited to the Hula Bowl after the season.

Professional career

Carolina Panthers DiRenzo was not invited to the NFL Scouting Combine and was not selected in the 2023 NFL draft, but was signed by the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent. He was elevated to the active roster for the team's Week 15 game against the Atlanta Falcons, and made his NFL debut in the 9–7 win, playing seven total snaps. DiRenzo was signed to the active roster on January 2, 2024. He finished the season having appeared in three games.

Memphis Showboats On February 14, 2025, DiRenzo signed with the Memphis Showboats of the United Football League (UFL).

Arlington Renegades On April 21, 2025, DiRenzo was traded to the Arlington Renegades in exchange for OT Kellen Diesch.

Louisville Kings On January 13, 2026, DiRenzo was selected by the Louisville Kings in the 2026 UFL Draft.