By Randall Barnes
Doug Williams, an HBCU legend and a trailblazer in the NFL, has once again made history. The Washington Commanders recently announced Williams’ promotion to the position of Senior Advisor to the General Manager, further solidifying his legacy in professional football.
The Grambling State legend has been with the Commanders since 2014, initially joining as a personnel executive. He served as Senior Vice President of Player Personnel from 2017 to 2019 and was promoted to Senior Vice President of Player Development in 2020. In 2021, Commanders team president Jason Wright appointed him as a senior advisor.
The latest move adds to the football legacy of Doug Williams. His football journey began at Grambling State University, where he played under the legendary Eddie G. Robinson from 1974 to 1977. During his tenure, he led the Tigers to three SWAC Championships and an impressive 36-7 record. His exceptional performance on the field garnered significant Heisman Trophy buzz, culminating in a fourth-place finish in 1977.
In 1978, Doug Williams was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the 17th overall pick in the NFL Draft. His journey in professional football took a significant turn when he joined the Washington Redskins, where he not only showcased his skills but also solidified his place in history. Fast forward to 1988, Williams made history by becoming the first Black quarterback to secure a Super Bowl MVP title. His exceptional performance led the Redskins to a resounding victory, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Williams’ influence on football stretches well past his playing career. After retiring, he made a significant impact by returning to Grambling State to take on the role of coaching the Tigers. In a memorable season in 2000, he steered the team to a SWAC title, achieving an impressive 10-2 record. The subsequent year marked another milestone as he guided the Tigers to a remarkable Black College Football National Title, culminating in a stellar 10-1 season. Building on this success, Williams continued to shine by securing consecutive SWAC championships in 2002, capping off the season with an outstanding 11-2 record.