D.J. Williams is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons. He was born on July 20, 1982, in Sacramento, California, and attended De La Salle High School in Concord, California, where he played football and was a member of the school's undefeated team in 2000.
After high school, Williams attended the University of Miami, where he played for the Miami Hurricanes football team from 2000 to 2003. He was a standout player and was named a first-team All-American in 2003. Williams was also a member of the Hurricanes' national championship team in 2001.
In the 2004 NFL Draft, Williams was selected by the Denver Broncos in the first round, 17th overall. He played for the Broncos for nine seasons, from 2004 to 2012, and was a key member of the team's defense. Williams was known for his versatility and ability to play multiple linebacker positions. He was also a strong tackler and had a knack for making big plays.
In 2013, Williams signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent. He played for the Bears for one season before being released in 2014. Williams then signed with the Tennessee Titans but was released before the start of the regular season.
Throughout his career, Williams was a consistent performer and was recognized for his contributions on and off the field. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2009 and was a two-time winner of the Broncos' Ed Block Courage Award, which is given to players who demonstrate courage and sportsmanship.
Off the field, Williams was involved in several charitable organizations and was known for his philanthropic efforts. He founded the D.J. Williams Foundation, which provides support and resources to underprivileged children and families.
In 2015, Williams announced his retirement from the NFL. He finished his career with 898 tackles, 20.5 sacks, and 13 interceptions. Williams was a respected player and leader on and off the field and left a lasting impact on the teams he played for and the communities he served.
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