In 1984, David Williams won Lakeland High School’s only state weightlifting title (in the heavyweight division).  While at Lakeland, he was also named USA Today High School Football All-American.  Following his high school career, Williams attended the University of Florida where he became the first freshman offensive lineman in Gator history to start every game.  David was a 2-time All-SEC team member and was named 2nd Team All-American twice.  He was a two-time winner of UF’s Jimmy Kynes Award and was a finalist for the Outland Trophy as the nation’s best offensive lineman in 1988.  He was selected (along with Lomas Brown) as the best offensive lineman in Gator history, as well as being named to the Gators’ Team of the Century and is a member of the UF Athletic Hall of Fame. 

In 1989, David was selected in the 1st round of the NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers where he spent most of his NFL career before going to the New York Jets in 1996.  He is also the recipient of the Billy Chase Award given to an outstanding Polk County Gator.