Erik Williams

Erik Williams established his prowess as an offensive left tackle during his collegiate career at Central State University from 1987 to 1990. During his tenure, Central State achieved 41 wins, including an NAIA national championship in 1990, where he anchored an offense that set an NAIA record by averaging 492 yards and 54.8 points per game. This collegiate success led to his selection by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round (70th overall) of the 1991 NFL Draft. He quickly made his mark, earning the starting right tackle position in 1992 and distinguishing himself by holding future Hall of Famer Reggie White to no sacks in a pivotal 1992 game, a performance that earned him the NFC Offensive Player of the Week award – a first for a Cowboys offensive lineman.

A significant turning point occurred on October 24, 1994, when a serious car accident sidelined Williams for the remainder of the season due to multiple injuries, including torn knee ligaments. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, he returned in 1995 to contribute to the Cowboys’ victory in Super Bowl XXX, marking his third championship. Post-injury, Williams remained a consistent starter and contributor for the team, earning additional Pro Bowl selections in 1996, 1997, and 1999, along with a First-team All-Pro nod in 1996. Williams concluded his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys upon his release in March 2001.

He briefly signed with the Baltimore Ravens in August 2001, playing in five games before being placed on the reserve-retired list in November 2001, concluding a distinguished NFL career. Beyond his playing days, Williams has been recognized for his athletic achievements, earning induction into the Central State University Sports Hall of Fame in 2010 and the prestigious Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2020.