Williams, born and raised in Sacramento, California, lived with family in the Bay Area during high school.

[2] Williams started his collegiate career at the University of Miami at fullback due to a logjam at the linebacker position.

[2] Williams switched back to his favored linebacker position in 2001 and was quiet but productive member of the National Championship team.

He registered 108 tackles (55 solos) to rank second on the team, notched four sacks, forced two fumbles, and broke up eight passes.

Williams finished second on the team with 82 tackles (44 solo) and tie for the team-lead with six sacks, forced a fumble and recovered another.

[6] Although an early candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year,[7] the award went to then-New York Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma.

[6] 2009 brought change to the Broncos defense when former Patriots offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels was hired as head coach.

Playing the "Jack" ILB position (same as Patrick Willis - 49ers), Williams finished the season with 122 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles.

As this was his second DUI charge, Williams faced a mandatory 10-day jail sentence and a minimum of two years probation if he was convicted - he was ordered to appear in court on December 13.

[9] By the end of the season, Williams finished with 119 tackles (94 solo), 5.5 sacks, 9 pass deflection and 1 forced fumble.