Doug Williams Biography

Douglas Lee Williams, born August 9, 1955, is an American professional football executive and former quarterback and coach who serves as a senior advisor for the Washington Commanders in the National Football League. Williams made history as the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, leading the Washington Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XXII. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, most notably serving as head coach of the Grambling State Tigers. He has held team executive roles with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Virginia Destroyers, and Washington Redskins. As a four-year starter, Williams compiled a 36–7 record and led the Tigers to three Southwestern Athletic Conference Championships. In 1977, he led the NCAA in total yards from scrimmage with 3,249, passing yards with 3,286, touchdown passes with 38, and yards per play with 8.6. He earned a bachelor's degree in education from Grambling and began student teaching while pursuing his master's degree prior to the 1978 NFL draft.