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Doug Williams was born in Zachary, Louisiana on August 9, 1955. After high school, he played at Grambling State University; leading them to three conference championships in four years between 1974 and 1977. Williams was recognized by the Associated Press as a first-team All-American in 1977 and finished fourth in the voting for the Heisman Trophy.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in health and physical education from Grambling and was drafted by Tampa Bay in the first round of the 1978 NFL draft. No African American quarterback had ever been drafted prior to the 6th round before Williams. He remained the lowest compensated quarterback in the NFL despite leading Tampa to the playoffs 3 out of 5 seasons. Williams then joined the Oklahoma Outlaws of the United States Football League (USFL).
He returned to the NFL in 1987, signing with Washington. He began the season as the backup quarterback but was moved into the starting role. Williams led Washington to victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl twenty-two. Williams was also awarded MVP honors, throwing for 340 yards and 4 touchdowns. He stayed with Washington for two more seasons before being released at the end of the 1989 season. During his nine-year career, Williams threw for 16,998 yards with 100 touchdown passes and 93 interceptions. He also ran for 884 yards.
He currently serves as a Senior Advisor for the Washington Commanders.
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