Former Notre Dame 2-Time All-American Dies Suddenly at 62

Despite being selected so late in the draft, Williams played 42 games and started 33 for the Browns over the next four seasons. A shoulder injury and an extended free agency stint kept Williams off the field until 1991, when he saw action in six games, starting two, for the New Orleans Saints.

Williams finished his career playing in 13 games (nine starts) for a 2-14 New England Patriots club in 1992. He earned a law degree and spent several years practicing law before joining Notre Dame’s athletic department in 1999.

The University of Portland named Williams its athletic director in 2004, and he took the same position at Marquette in 2011. After he left Marquette in late 2013, he served as Akron’s AD from 2015 through 2021.

Williams called USF an “almost perfect combination” of the things he cherished when he arrived in 2022.

“No. 1, it’s the Catholic identity,” Williams explained. “No. 2, it’s the deep educational mission. And No. 3, it’s athletic participation in an environment that very specifically includes 1 and 2. At this point in my career, there’s almost a vocational element to what I do here at USF.”

Sports World Reacts to Larry Williams’ Death

Notre Dame shared a social media graphic featuring Williams, and Marquette remembered him as a “strong, committed leader” who left a “lasting mark” on the school.

“His vision and leadership were foundational to the formation of the basketball-centric BIG EAST Conference in 2013, helping to shape the conference into what it is today,” the school wrote on X.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel called Williams’ death “crushing news” and cited the unique perspective he brought to an athletic department as a former All-American player.

“The Mid-American Conference is deeply saddened by the passing of Larry Williams, beloved father of MAC Senior Associate Commissioner Kristin Williams,” the conference wrote on Thursday.

We extend our condolences to Williams’ friends, family, and all who knew him.