Willie Buchanon

Willie James Buchanon (born November 4, 1950) is an American former professional football player who was a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Born and raised in Oceanside, California, he graduated from Oceanside High School and attended Mira Costa College, where he was named a Junior College All-American in 1969. He went on to play for the San Diego State Aztecs, where he was named an All-American and was voted Most Valuable Player of the 1971 East-West Shrine Game. Sporting News later named him to its All-Time collegiate team.

Buchanon was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the 1972 NFL draft, the seventh overall pick. He was named the Associated Press NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1972 and earned two Pro Bowl selections during his career. He finished with his hometown San Diego Chargers, retiring with 28 career interceptions and 15 fumble recoveries.