Minnesota Vikings: 15 best first-round draft picks of all time

Harrison Smith, Minnesota Vikings. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
Harrison Smith, Minnesota Vikings. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /
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Kevin Williams, Minnesota Vikings
Kevin Williams, Minnesota Vikings. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

The 2003 NFL Draft saw defensive tackle Kevin Williams land in Minnesota. The Oklahoma State defensive lineman was the ninth overall selection of the Vikings, and he made an immediate impact on the team’s defense.

Williams had an amazing rookie season, notching 10.5 sacks, 51 combined tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery. He earned a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team to reward him for his efforts.

Paired with Pat Williams, the duo quickly earned the nickname as the “Williams Wall” because of their dominance in the middle of the defensive line. In 11 years with Minnesota, Kevin Williams totaled 60 sacks, 331 total tackles, five interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns.

Accolades also came based on his play. Williams was named to the Pro Bowl six times and the All-Pro First-Team five times while being a part of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team and one of the 50 Greatest Vikings.

– AC