Tag: Doug Williams

Former Bucs QB named as semi-finalist for Pro Football Hall of Fame

The Bucs can add another name to the fold in the form of a contributor role from one of their earlier quarterbacks in franchise history.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a long and storied history, including several Hall of Famers like Ronde Barber, Derrick Brooks, and Lee Roy Selmon. In 2025, the Bucs can add another name to the fold in the form of a contributor role from one of their earlier quarterbacks in franchise history.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced nine semi-finalists for its contributor induction spot, and former Bucs quarterback Doug Williams made the cut.

Williams played quarterback for the Bucs from 1978 to 1982. He passed for 73 touchdowns and went 33-33-1 as the team’s starter. He parlayed his time in Tampa Bay into time in Washington, where he made history as the first to start in and win a Super Bowl, he was also named the MVP in that Super Bowl.

Since his playing time ended, he has worked in several front offices and has played a major role in increasing the chances of black quarterbacks succeeding.

Doug Williams one step closer to the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Could Doug Williams land in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

Who will be the next member of the Washington NFL organization to enter the hallowed halls of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio?

Will it be Brian Mitchell, London Fletcher, Joe Jacoby, or someone else?

Or could it be Doug Williams?

On Wednesday, the Pro Football Hall of Fame trimmed its list from 47 to 25 candidates in the contributor category for selection into the 2025 class. Williams was one of those 25 nominees.

Here’s what the HOF statement said about Williams’ candidacy:

Career with Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1978-1982) and Washington Redskins (1986-89) included historic moment as first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl (XXII) with an MVP performance; credited with creating opportunities for future Black athletes

In addition to his outstanding playing career, Williams had two successful stints as a college head coach at his alma mater (Grambling) before returning to the NFL and working in personnel. Williams returned to Washington in 2014 as a personnel executive. He’s remained with the franchise since and is currently a senior advisor to general manager Adam Peters.

The next step is for the Hall’s Contributor Blue-Ribbon Committee to trim the list to nine names, which will happen in two weeks. Ultimately, the process will end with one of these 25 names going into the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.

Michael Vick interview with Commanders QB Jayden Daniels will air ahead of Week 5

Vick and Daniels even took a photo with the legendary Doug Williams.

Jayden Daniels is having a record start to his NFL career. Daniels has the Washington Commanders at 3-1 and has completed 82.1% of his passes for 897 yards with three passing touchdowns. He’s also rushed for four touchdowns.

Daniels is the talk of the NFL, not only for his terrific play but because he has immediately helped transform the Commanders from a doormat to an NFC contender.

Everyone wants to talk about Daniels. Everyone wants to talk to Daniels. Recently, legendary dual-threat quarterback Michael Vick traveled to Ashburn to visit with Daniels. Vick works for FOX Sports and sat down with Daniels in an interview that will air ahead of Sunday’s Week 5 game against the Cleveland Browns.

Daniels and Vick exchanged signed jerseys and took a photo that went viral on Wednesday. Doug Williams, Washington’s legendary quarterback who is now a team executive, posted a photo of the three from Commanders’ headquarters.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAn08P5xpN2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Williams wrote the following:

Man what a blessing… Mike Vick visited Park yesterday and it was great!!! What’s the chances of being able to jump in a photo with these guys/ what a blessing… it’s just good to see where we have come, once you are afforded an OPPORTUNITY…. Say no more

The Commanders shared the photo on their X page.

To catch the interview, tune into FOX at Noon ET on Sunday.

Lamar Jackson to be featured in Michael Vick’s docuseries on evolution of the black QB

Former Philadelphia Eagles star Michael Vick to lead a new, 8-part Amazon Prime docuseries on the evolution of the Black quarterback in America

Michael Vick, the executive producer, will be coming to a television screen near you, thanks to a partnership between the former No. 1 overall pick and SMAC Productions–Fubo Studios.

NFL on Prime Video announced Vick’s new, 8-part docuseries on the evolution of the Black quarterback in America, which will premiere September 24.

He will interview players and coaches in the docuseries, including Patrick Mahomes, Cam Newton, Warren Moon, Doug Williams, Tony Dungy, and Andy Reid.

It’s the first project for the newly formed Fubo Studios.

“I’m excited to be a part of this project because as a kid, I just wanted to have a shot at playing in the National Football League. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be the first African American quarterback drafted #1. I know that was a big step for us in society,” Vick said in a statement. “I was always told that I revolutionized the quarterback position, but I also like to give credit to the ones who I idolized as a kid and who paved the way like Randall Cunningham, Steve McNair, and Donovan McNabb. When you look at the evolution of the Black quarterback, it’s because of the people that came before us. And now, I’m thankful for the dual threat concept that has changed the game for the better.”

The Fox NFL analyst and his wife, Kijafa Vick, SMAC Productions’ Constance Schwartz-Morini, and Fubo Studios’ David Gandler and Pamela Duckworth serve as executive producers. Fred Anthony Smith, vice president of non-scripted at SMAC Entertainment, is set to direct and executive produce the series.

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Several former Eagles to appear in Michael Vick’s docuseries on evolution of the black QB

Former Philadelphia Eagles star Michael Vick to lead a new, 8-part Amazon Prime docuseries on the evolution of the Black quarterback in America

The NFL was a league that once had a dark history of slighting and disrespecting black quarterbacks. Still, Philadelphia and the Eagles organization has been the gold standard in reversing the trend.

The Eagles made Randall Cunningham the franchise’s first black quarterback.

Drafted 37th overall in the 1985 NFL draft, Cunningham played 11 seasons in Philly before injuries caused him to be benched in favor of another black quarterback, Rodney Peete, in 1995.

Cunningham, Peete, Donovan McNabb, and Michael Vick led Eagles teams to the playoffs. Vince Young spent a season with the franchise, and Jalen Hurts has taken over the reins from Carson Wentz this season as he looks to lock in his spot long-term.

Michael Vick, the executive producer, will be coming to a television screen near you, thanks to a partnership between the former No. 1 overall pick and SMAC Productions–Fubo Studios.

NFL on Prime Video announced Vick’s new, 8-part docuseries on the evolution of the Black quarterback in America, which will premiere September 24.

He will interview players and coaches in the docuseries, including Patrick Mahomes, Cam Newton, Warren Moon, Doug Williams, Tony Dungy, and Andy Reid.

https://Twitter.com/NFLonPrime/status/1830591759837229309

It’s the first project for the newly formed Fubo Studios.

“I’m excited to be a part of this project because as a kid, I just wanted to have a shot at playing in the National Football League. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be the first African American quarterback drafted #1. I know that was a big step for us in society,” Vick said in a statement. “I was always told that I revolutionized the quarterback position, but I also like to give credit to the ones who I idolized as a kid and who paved the way like Randall Cunningham, Steve McNair, and Donovan McNabb. When you look at the evolution of the Black quarterback, it’s because of the people that came before us. And now, I’m thankful for the dual threat concept that has changed the game for the better.”

The Fox NFL analyst and his wife, Kijafa Vick, SMAC Productions’ Constance Schwartz-Morini, and Fubo Studios’ David Gandler and Pamela Duckworth serve as executive producers. Fred Anthony Smith, vice president of non-scripted at SMAC Entertainment, is set to direct and executive produce the series.

WATCH: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels arrives at first game in Doug Williams jersey

Jayden Daniels showed up to his first NFL start in style.

Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels arrived at his first NFL game in style. The Commanders play the New York Jets at MetLife in the 2024 preseason opener, and Daniels arrived wearing Doug Williams’ iconic No. 17 jersey.

Williams, of course, played for Washington from 1986-89 and led the franchise to a 42-10 win over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII. He completed 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards and four touchdowns and was named Super Bowl MVP.

Williams returned to the organization in 2014 where he has served in numerous roles. New general manager Adam Peters named Williams his senior advisor this offseason.

The legendary Williams has served as a mentor to Daniels since their arrival in April’s NFL draft.

Daniels led the Commanders to a touchdown on his first drive as an NFL quarterback.

Commanders announce several moves, including promotions

Doug Williams has a new role, too.

It’s been a busy offseason for the Washington Commanders. It all began on Jan. 8, when owner Josh Harris fired head coach Ron Rivera. Within a week, Harris hired general manager Adam Peters to start a new era.

Next came the hiring of head coach Dan Quinn, who hired an impressive coaching staff. Peters essentially left the front office intact, except for hiring Lance Newmark away from the Detroit Lions as his new assistant general manager.

The lack of front-office movement was no surprise, considering every NFL team was in the middle of draft preparation. Scouts and executives usually have contracts that run through the NFL draft, meaning that type of movement is reserved for after the draft.

Once the draft ended and the calendar turned to May, Peters began making moves to shape the front office in his vision. Several former executives and scouts were allowed to depart, and Peters replaced them with qualified and respected candidates from across the NFL.

On Tuesday, the most newsworthy item was Washington and vice president of football strategy Eugene Shen parting ways. Shen was hired in October to lead Washington’s analytics program under Harris. However, Peters hired Brandon Sosna away from Detroit last month as the new senior vice president of football operations. Sosna will lead the analytics department.

The Commanders and Shen parted on amicable terms and it appears as if he could be moving into another role for Harris Blitzer Sports Entertainment.

Several in the organization received promotions, including Sean DeBarbieri to vice president of football communications. Rob Rogers, who was Washington’s chief contract negotiator, goes from senior vice president of football administration to VP of football administration. Rogers will likely report to Sosna and, of course, Peters.

Also, team legend Doug Williams, who has held several different roles in the organization since his return to the front office in 2014, is now a senior advisor to Peters and not team president Jason Wright. Peters mentioned Williams specifically after the draft

Under former coach Ron Rivera, Williams was removed from the personnel department in 2020, a move Peters reversed.

Here’s a look at the new moves the Commanders announced on Tuesday.

Washington Commanders

WATCH: Washington Hall of Fame cornerback Darrell Green has still got it

After all these years, Darrell Green has still got it.

It’s been a busy time for former Washington cornerback Darrell Green recently. Just before the 2024 NFL draft, the Commanders had Green record a video introducing the rookie class to Washington. However, the purpose of that video was to reveal the franchise was retiring his No. 28 jersey next season.

Green’s family surprised him after he learned the news, as did Washington general manager Adam Peters, coach Dan Quinn, and a pair of Green’s former teammates, Doug Williams and Martin Mayhew, who work in the front office.

On the second day of the draft in Detroit, Green was on hand to announce the Commanders’ first second-round pick, Illinois defensive tackle Johnny Newton. Green also introduced Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott.

Green’s list of accomplishments on and off the field is lengthy, but a recent viral video emerged to show that Green may still be able to help the Commanders.

Let’s put this into perspective: Green turned 64 in February. The Pro Football Hall of Famer finished his legendary career with 54 interceptions and was a four-time winner of the NFL’s Fastest Man competition.

Washington fans certainly agree it’s good to see Green back in an active role with the organization since Josh Harris took over as owner last summer.

Washington legend Doug Williams had a message for Jayden Daniels on draft night

The franchise icon welcomed Daniels to Washington.

Doug Williams knows what it takes to be a successful NFL quarterback in Washington, D.C. In the 1987 season, Williams led the then-Washington Redskins to a 42-10 win over the Denver Broncos to win Super Bowl XXII. Williams was named Super Bowl MVP after passing for 340 yards and four touchdowns.

Williams broke numerous records with his performance and also became an icon. Williams was the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl and solidified himself as a Washington legend.

Since retirement, Williams has been successful in every venture. He’s currently a senior advisor for the Commanders and has been with the organization in various roles since 2014.

On Thursday, Williams helped welcome Washington’s new quarterback, Jayden Daniels, to the franchise with this cool video courtesy of the team’s official X account.

“How do you want to be remembered?” Williams asked Daniels.

“Somebody that people look up to as a role model and hero,” Daniels said. “That’s how I want to be remembered. Somebody that made a huge impact in the community. Giving back, giving hope and inspiration to kids who look like me. No matter what, I’m excited and will do whatever it takes to help the team win.”

What a perfect response from Daniels.

Williams closed the message welcoming Daniels to Washington.

In his opening press conference with the Commanders, Daniels mentioned Williams and acknowledged his achievements with the franchise.

Remember the silly online chatter that Daniels didn’t want to play in Washington? We can officially move past that narrative.

Washington legend Doug Williams says ‘good chance’ Commanders draft a quarterback

Doug Williams was asked if he thinks the Commanders will select a quarterback.

The Washington Commanders hold the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft and are in an excellent position in a draft with three elite quarterback prospects.

With a new general manager (Adam Peters) and head coach (Dan Quinn), the Commanders can start anew at the three most important positions.

Peters has had two opportunities to discuss the team’s quarterback situation since being named GM last month. He declined both times, saying he hadn’t had a chance to sit down with his staff and determine the organization’s strategy.

However, one of the greatest quarterbacks in Washington’s franchise history, Doug Williams, was in Las Vegas this week ahead of Super Bowl LVIII making the media rounds. In an appearance on “Super Bowl Live” on the NFL Network with Andrew Siciliano and Bucky Brooks, Williams was asked about the 2024 NFL draft.

Siciliano jokingly asked Williams, who is currently a senior advisor for the Commanders, if they’d called the Chicago Bears about moving from No. 2 to No. 1 in the draft.

“I’m (going to) say we hadn’t at this particular time,” Williams answered. “I think Adam, next week is going to be the first time that Adam gets a chance to sit in with the scouts and everybody that’s in personnel to go over what their plans are.”

Williams would then discuss the position Washington is in with the No. 2 pick and five of the top 100 picks before Siciliano tries one more time to get Williams to give him the scoop.

“I think, Bucky, you know good and well, I’ve got to be political about this whole thing now,” Williams said when Siciliano asked about selecting a quarterback.

“Nine out of 10, there’s a good chance that we might pick one of the quarterbacks, but at the same time, we’ve got enough picks behind to fill in those…….whether it’s an offensive tackle, defensive end, linebacker, what have you, so I think we’re in a great position.”

There was some talk on social media that Peters would be upset that Williams tipped Washington’s hand. Stop. Please stop.

First, Williams gave nothing away. He said the Commanders “might” pick a quarterback but didn’t say when or where. Everyone knows there’s a “good chance” that Washington selects a quarterback in April.

Secondly, Williams doesn’t work in personnel. He did at one time, but he hasn’t in years. He hasn’t been sitting in any personnel meetings with Peters or the scouts.

Williams handled the question just fine.