Mike Williams Returns to Texas for Hall of Honor Induction

Mike Williams walked into Royal-Memorial Stadium in Austin last Friday. The 46-year-old former All-American offensive tackle was one of 13 inductees into the Texas Athletics Hall of Honor. He had not returned to campus in 24 years.

The air smelled of fresh grass and old memories. Williams stood on the same ground where he once played in Mack Brown’s first recruiting class. He remembered the tragic death of teammate Cole Pittman in 2001. He recalled Brown sitting on the floor of his home, back against the couch. "How could I not go to Texas?" he said. The stadium has changed completely, but the feeling remained.

A Career Cut Short by Injury

Williams spent four seasons with the Buffalo Bills. He played one final year with Washington. Blood clots ended his NFL career. He was the first-round pick in the draft. "I wish it could have been longer," he said. "Buffalo was great. I love me some Buffalo."

He lives in Virginia Beach with his wife and children. His daughter Mia, 13, is a wrestling star. She aims for the 2032 Olympics. Williams teaches her to listen to her body. "Be like Wonder Woman," he tells her. "When she steps on the mat, her mentality fits her nickname, which is Pit Bull."

Returning to the Classroom

Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte called in June. He asked if Williams had finished his degree. Williams admitted he had not. He was studying sociology with a minor in business. Del Conte joked Texas could not induct him without a diploma. That comment stirred something within the former lineman.

He will now complete his degree online. He jokes about his niece Jada at Oklahoma and nephew Emory at Texas A&M. "I failed somewhere," he said. The Houston Chronicle reported on his renewed perspective. He wants to return to Austin more often. He may even go to class again.