Gerard Williams

Gerard Anthony Williams (May 25, 1952 – ) was an American professional football player who was a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Redskins, San Francisco 49ers, and St. Louis Cardinals. He was also a member of the Birmingham Americans and Birmingham Vulcans in the World Football League (WFL). Williams played college football for the Langston Lions.

Early life Williams attended Northeast High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He accepted a football scholarship from Langston University.

In 2014, he was inducted into the Langston University Athletic Hall of Fame.

Professional career Dallas Cowboys Williams was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys after the 1974 NFL draft. He was released before the start of the season.

Birmingham Americans (WFL) On September 17, 1974, he signed as a free agent with the Birmingham Americans of the World Football League. He was named the starter at right cornerback and had 4 interceptions.

In 1975, the Americans suffered a financial crisis and were replaced by the Birmingham Vulcans. Williams played in 9 games and had 3 interceptions before the league folded.

Los Angeles Rams In 1975, he signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Rams. He was released on August 11.

Washington Redskins On April 6, 1976, he was signed as a free agent by the Washington Redskins. He was a backup at left cornerback behind Pat Fischer. In 1977, he became a starter after Fischer suffered a pinched back nerve. He started 11 games and posted 4 interceptions.

In 1978, he was passed on the depth chart by Lemar Parrish. Williams regained his starting position after Parrish was lost for the season with a fractured forearm, finishing with 5 starts and 4 interceptions. He was released on August 27, 1979.

San Francisco 49ers On September 6, 1979, he signed as a free agent with the San Francisco 49ers. He started 14 games at right cornerback and registered 4 interceptions. He was released on September 1, 1980.

St. Louis Cardinals On October 22, 1980, he was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals. He was waived on November 19.

San Francisco 49ers On November 20, 1980, he was re-signed by the San Francisco 49ers. He was released on May 14, 1981.

Death Williams's death at the age of 73 was announced on April 3, 2026.