The undersized running back who broke every record in the book

History · Published 6 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Standing at just 5'9, DeAngelo Williams was told he was too small for the NFL. He responded by rewriting the record books, becoming one of the most prolific ground attackers in college football history before transitioning to a career in professional wrestling.

Before entering the spotlight at the University of Memphis, Williams was a standout in Arkansas. At Wynne High School, he set a single-season record with 2,204 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns. Even with a fractured foot in his second year, he secured All-State recognition and became the country's 25th top running back prospect, notwithstanding early doubts from scouts regarding his stature. He was a letterman in track and field. He also held the state 4A record for the 100-meter dash. He was recruited by three different major universities before choosing his final school.

At Memphis, Williams became a statistical anomaly. In 2003, he tied the school record for consecutive 100-yard games before breaking it, eventually reaching eight straight. By his junior year, he led the nation in all-purpose yards and finished with 1,948 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. His senior season was even more dominant; he finished as the nation's top ground-gainer with 1,964 yards, earning him a seventh-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting. He won the inaugural ARA Sportsmanship Award in 2005. He also received the Amateur Athlete of the Year Award. During his sophomore year, he missed most of his season due to a broken foot.

Williams' legacy is defined by volume and consistency. He finished his collegiate career with 6,026 rushing yards and 55 touchdowns, holding the NCAA record for 100-yard rushing games with 34—more than double the next closest player. After an 11-season NFL career with the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers, he pivoted to professional wrestling, showcasing the versatility of an athlete who defied every physical projection. He played for the Carolina Panthers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was selected in the first round of the 2006 draft. He also played for the Memphis Tigers for four years.

His impact on Memphis football was so significant that the university renamed its Most Valuable Player The award is presented annually at the school's football banquets. Three times, he became the sole individual at the university to record ten 100-yard performances during one year.

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