Top 10 Illinois Fighting Illini football players of all time

6. David Williams – WR, 1983-1985

From 1983 to 1985, Williams dominated on the field, setting school records, and being a massive weapon in Illinois’ offense. In his first year with Illinois, Williams caught 59 passes for 870 yards and six touchdowns. This great, consistent performance would help Illinois reach the Rose Bowl the next season. In 1984, Williams led the nation with 101 receptions for 1,278 yards. He finished his career as the second-leading receiver in NCAA history with 262 catches, good for 3,392 yards and 24 touchdowns.  

Also, in 1984 and 1985, Williams would be named first team All-American. Williams has since been inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Illinois Athletic Hall of Fame. 

In 1986, Williams was selected in the third round of the NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. He was cut by the Bears before the season began, and would go on to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1986. The following year, in 1987, Williams signed with the Los Angeles Raiders.