Williams threw for 100 TD’s while tossing 93 interceptions. His touchdown rate when attempting a pass was 4.0% and his interception percentage was 3.7%. He lost 504 yards while being the victim of a QB sack 84 different times. He averaged 193.2 yds per game through the air. During the 88 contests in his career, Williams completed 1,240 of 2,507 attempts for 16,998 yds.
In his final season, Williams threw for a total of 0 yards with 0 touchdowns and 0 picks. He was sacked 0 times for a total of 0 yards lost. He had a QB rating of 0.0 with a TD percentage of 0.0% and an interception percentage of 0.0%. His longest pass completion went for 0 yds and he threw for 0.0 yards per outing. Williams completed 0 of his attempted 0 passes in his last year for a completion percentage of 0.0%.
Doug Williams has left a lasting legacy in the NFL that will be remembered for generations to come. From his impressive accolades and accomplishments on the field to his inspiring journey as a black quarterback in a predominantly white league, Williams’ story is one of determination, skill, and unyielding resilience.
Doug Williams was born in Zachary, Louisiana, on August 9, 1955. He played college football at Grambling State University under the legendary coach Eddie Robinson. Williams’ talent and leadership quickly made him a standout on the team. Under his guidance, the Tigers won three black college national championship titles, and he was named HBCU Player of the Year in 1977 and 1978.
In 1978, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Williams as the 17th overall pick in the NFL draft. At the time, only a few black quarterbacks were active in the league, and Williams faced numerous challenges and prejudices because of his race. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and became the first black quarterback to be named Super Bowl MVP during Super Bowl XXII in 1988 with the Washington Redskins.
Super Bowl XXII marked a turning point not only for Williams but also for the NFL as a whole. He led the Redskins to a 42-10 victory over the Denver Broncos, completing 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards and four touchdowns. This performance made Williams the only player in NFL history to win a championship in college and as a starting quarterback in the Super Bowl.
Super Bowl XXII opened doors for black quarterbacks in the NFL, paving the way for future stars like Warren Moon, Randall Cunningham, and Donovan McNabb. Williams’ success demonstrated that talented quarterbacks could excel regardless of their race, proving that talent and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
After a successful career in the NFL, Williams transitioned into coaching. He returned to Grambling State University as head coach from 1998 to 2003, where he led the team to two Southwestern Athletic Conference titles. In 2004, Williams became head coach of the NFL Europe team Rhein Fire, leading them to a World Bowl victory the same year.
Williams transitioned back to coaching in the NFL as the quarterbacks coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2007 to 2010 and then became the Washington Redskins’ senior vice president of player personnel and development in 2014. He continues to serve as an advocate for black quarterbacks and an inspiring figure for young players and fans alike.
Doug Williams’ accomplishments and journey in the NFL serve as a testament to his determination, skill, and resilience. He overcame obstacles and shattered barriers as the first black quarterback to win a Super Bowl MVP and a national champion at both the college and professional levels. Williams’ legacy extends beyond his impressive accolades by paving the way for future generations of black quarterbacks and inspiring countless fans and athletes. As an icon and trailblazer, his impact on the game of football will be felt and remembered for years to come.
So, it’s not just about celebrating Doug Williams’ accomplishments; it’s also about acknowledging the challenges he faced and the obstacles he overcame. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to inspire change in the face of adversity. The NFL and the world of sports are richer because of Doug Williams’ contributions, both on and off the field.
As we look back on his career and accomplishments, we are reminded of the importance of fighting for equality and fairness. It is crucial to continue the work started by athletes like Williams and to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed in sports and beyond.
In a league that has grown increasingly diverse, Doug Williams’ legacy serves as a shining beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes from all backgrounds. He proved that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
As we reflect on the life and career of Doug Williams, let us remember his journey and the obstacles he overcame to achieve greatness. And let us use his story as a source of motivation to continue pushing for a more just and inclusive world, both on and off the field.