Former NFL offensive lineman Larry Williams died at the age of 62 on Thursday while working out at the University of San Francisco campus where he worked as athletic director since 2022.
USF president Salvador D. Aceves issued a statement on the school’s website announcing the news:
“I am saddened to inform you that USF Athletic Director Larry Williams passed away this morning while working out at War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center on campus. He was 62.
“Our prayers go out to Larry’s wife, Laura, their children, Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, their families, and his grandchildren. My thoughts and prayers also go to the university’s 250 student-athletes and all of the coaches and staff under Larry’s skillful watch.”
Williams was named USF’s athletic director on Aug. 31, 2022. He spent the previous seven years working in the same role at the University of Akron.
A standout player at Notre Dame, Williams was a two-time All-American second team selection in 1983 and 1984. He was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the 10th round of the 1985 NFL draft.
Williams spent three seasons with the Browns but suffered a shoulder injury late in 1988. He didn’t appear in a game again until 1991 with the New Orleans Saints, then spent a year with the New England Patriots before retiring prior to the 1993 season.
The California native appeared in 61 games (44 starts) over five NFL seasons. He also had a stint with the San Diego Chargers in 1989 but never appeared in a game with the club.
