Connor Williams' story is one of perseverance, resilience, and triumph over adversity. From facing bullying and self-doubt as a child to becoming a successful athlete and role model, Williams has inspired many with his journey. This article explores his experiences, his rise to fame, and how he uses his platform to make a positive impact.
A Viral Moment
On December 21, 2021, during an exhibition game against Division I University at Buffalo, Connor Williams, then playing for St. John Fisher, experienced a moment that would change his life. Despite a 100-58 loss, a viral clip of Williams tripping and falling, then making an excellent pass to Daniel Cook for a dunk, spread rapidly across platforms like ESPN and Barstool Sports. The clip gained attention not only for the play itself but also for Williams' imposing 7-foot, 360-pound frame.
Navigating Negativity and Embracing Positivity
The viral clip brought both support and negativity. While many praised Williams' athleticism and resilience, others made negative comments about his size and stumble. Williams, however, was no stranger to adversity. He stated, "I faced adversity and hate my whole life because too many people in this world have nothing better to do than be hateful or keyboard warriors on the internet." He navigated the negativity with grace, using his newfound popularity for good.
NIL Deals and Partnerships
Williams' viral fame led to a NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal, allowing him to earn money as a Division III athlete. He partnered with Barstool Sports to create merchandise featuring him in pajamas, a nod to his "Big Cozy" nickname, which originated from him showing up to practice in pajamas. He also collaborated with Crazy Dog T-shirts, donating $5 from every purchase to PrimeTime585. Additionally, he partnered with DXL Big + Tall and has his own signed basketball card with Leaf Trading Cards.
Early Life and Overcoming Bullying
Growing up in Coppell, Texas, Williams faced bullying due to his size and a speech impediment. "When I was younger, I was overweight, so I got made fun of a lot," he said. "I got made fun of when I spoke." He found solace and strength in his family. With their support, he began working out daily, which eventually led him to his success in football. His experiences with bullying shaped his perspective and motivated him to prove his doubters wrong.
Read also: Hockey Phenom's Regimen
The Impact of Family Support
Williams emphasizes the importance of family support in overcoming adversity. His parents, Jimmy and Debbie Williams, made a conscious decision to allow him to handle his own battles while providing a supportive home environment. His brother, Dalton, and sister, Morgan, also played significant roles in his life, offering encouragement and helping him navigate challenges.
Physical Transformation and Football Career
At 14, Williams decided to take control of his life and transform his body. He began working out with his father, and through hard work and dedication, he reshaped his physique. This transformation led to a successful football career, earning him a scholarship to the University of Texas.
College Career
During his time at the University of Texas, Connor Williams distinguished himself as a formidable offensive lineman. In July 2017, leading up to his final season, he was already recognized as an All-American and a potential top pick for the 2018 NFL Draft.
Williams acknowledged the significant impact of strength and conditioning coach Yancy McKnight on his physical development since McKnight's arrival with head coach Tom Herman. By July 2017, Williams weighed approximately 310 pounds, down from his spring weight of 320 pounds.
Williams returned from a knee injury suffered against USC and played the season’s final three games instead of shutting it down and preparing for the NFL draft.
Read also: Weight Loss and Music Career
NFL Career
Connor Williams was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He played for the Cowboys for several seasons before joining the Miami Dolphins. Williams played in 57 games with 51 starts in seven NFL seasons, seeing significant action at guard and center. He also played in the postseason three times, including his rookie season in Dallas and the 2022 season in Miami.
Retirement from the Seattle Seahawks
In a surprising turn of events, Connor Williams retired from the Seattle Seahawks in November 2024. Despite a remarkable recovery from a torn ACL and starting for the team in nine games, Williams decided to step away from the sport, a decision that coach Mike Macdonald respected.
Message to Others
Williams uses his platform to inspire others to overcome adversity and pursue their goals. "Don’t let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do," he advises. He emphasizes the importance of setting goals, working hard, and staying true to oneself. "Find your path, stay true to it," Williams said. "There’s mornings where you don’t want to wake up, when you just want to stay in bed and sleep in." "It’s about how you handle the adversity and how you respond to it in the end," Williams said. "At the beginning of the day you have to set your goal, and you’ve got to pursue that goal."
Giving Back to the Community
Williams is committed to giving back to the community. He has spoken to student-athletes about overcoming hardships and achieving success. He also embraces his Mexican heritage and aims to inspire young people through his story.
Read also: Fueling NHL Dominance