In a stunning turn of events, Elijah Williams, a standout defensive tackle from Morgan State University, has defied the odds by signing an NFL contract with the Minnesota Vikings. The undrafted Jersey City native, who was invited to the Vikings’ rookie minicamp as a tryout player, left an indelible mark on the coaching staff with his exceptional performance, earning him a coveted spot on the team’s roster. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Williams’ relentless drive but also underscores the growing influence of HBCU athletes in professional football.

A Dominant Force at Morgan State

Elijah Williams’ journey to the NFL is a testament to his grit and talent. From 2021 to 2024, Williams was a cornerstone of Morgan State’s defense, appearing in 42 games and amassing an impressive stat line: 216 tackles, 52 tackles for loss, 31 sacks, three passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. His final season was nothing short of spectacular, as he achieved career highs in games played (12) and sacks (11), while recording 15 tackles for loss—his second-highest seasonal total. These numbers solidified his place as Morgan State’s all-time leader in sacks and tackles for loss, earning him the nickname “Agent Zero” for his relentless disruption on the field.

Williams’ dominance didn’t go unnoticed. In 2024, he was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Defensive Player of the Year, a fitting accolade for a player who led the conference with 11 sacks for 112 yards, 54 tackles, a forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and a blocked field goal. His accolades extended beyond the MEAC, as he was honored as an AFCA Championship Subdivision Coaches’ All-American, BOXTOROW HBCU All-American, and Stats Perform FCS All-American. Additionally, Williams was a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award, recognizing the top FCS defender, and one of 10 finalists for the Urban Edge Network’s inaugural HBCU+ National Player of the Year Award. His 31 career sacks rank him seventh in MEAC history, cementing his legacy as one of the conference’s all-time greats.

From High School Star to HBCU Legend

Before his historic run at Morgan State, Williams honed his craft at Lincoln High School in Jersey City, New Jersey. As a senior, he recorded 74 tackles (57 solo) in just 10 games, showcasing his ability to dominate at the prep level. His junior year was equally impressive, earning him Defensive MVP honors. A standout performance on September 28, 2018, saw Williams rack up 10 tackles and five tackles for loss in a single game, earning him Defensive Player of the Week recognition. This early success laid the foundation for his remarkable college career and eventual leap to the NFL.

Seizing the NFL Opportunity

Williams’ path to the Vikings was anything but conventional. After going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, he caught the attention of scouts at the Baltimore Ravens’ Local Pro Day, where his quick first step and relentless motor stood out. This performance earned him an invitation to the Minnesota Vikings’ rookie minicamp, where he faced steep competition as one of 20 tryout players. Despite the odds, Williams’ athleticism and skill set—honed at Morgan State—shined through. At 6’2” and 285 pounds, he may be considered undersized for an NFL defensive tackle, but his dominance at the FCS level and standout performance at the HBCU Legacy Bowl during the pre-draft process proved he could compete with the best.

During the Vikings’ minicamp, Williams impressed head coach Kevin O’Connell and the defensive staff, earning a contract alongside Kent State outside linebacker Matt Harmon. The Vikings, who announced the signings on May 12, 2025, now have a full 91-man roster, including an exemption for Australian punter Oscar Chapman. While Williams faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster, his versatility and tenacity make him a strong candidate for the practice squad or a rotational role under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

A Versatile and High-Character Leader

Beyond his on-field exploits, Williams is a player of immense character and versatility. According to Morgan State defensive line coach Ramal Faunteroy, Williams played every position on the defensive line, from 9-tech to nose tackle, and even dropped into coverage in various schemes. His ability to play in both odd and even fronts, contribute on special teams, and even line up as a tight end or fullback in offensive packages makes him a unique asset. Off the field, Williams graduated from Morgan State before his senior year and was a pillar of the community, often volunteering for service events and leading by example. Known as “Mr. Morgan State,” he was a vocal supporter in the student section, embodying the spirit of the Bears’ program.

A Beacon for HBCU Talent

Williams’ signing with the Vikings is more than a personal triumph—it’s a milestone for HBCU football. His journey from Morgan State to the NFL stage highlights the untapped talent within HBCU programs and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes. As he begins his professional career, Williams carries the pride of Morgan State and the broader HBCU community, proving that elite football talent can emerge from any stage. With his relentless work ethic and undeniable skill, Elijah Williams is poised to make waves in the NFL, starting with the Minnesota Vikings.

As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on this underdog from Jersey City, who has already defied expectations and shocked the NFL world with his bold move to Minnesota. The Vikings may have found a hidden gem in Elijah Williams, and his story is just beginning.