Keynote Speaker
ERIKWILLIAMS
Faith · Family · Football · Together
Date
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Time
9:00–10:30 AM
Location
Gold Jacket Lounge, Pro Football Hall of Fame
Address
2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton, OH 44708
Football Legend.
Spiritual Leader.
Champion of Purpose.
Erik G. Williams is a football legend, three-time Super Bowl Champion, four-time Pro Bowl selection, family man, businessman, and spiritual leader. A Philadelphia native, he grew up in the inner city and is the proud father of four children — Shi, Cassius, Ali, and Gena.
Mr. Williams attended Central State University in Ohio — a proud HBCU — where he led powerful offensive line play responsible for Central State's #1 ranking in total offense. During his senior year, he helped lead the team to the first-ever NAIA National Championship in Central State history.
Drafted by the Cowboys in the 3rd round of the 1991 NFL Draft, Williams became the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys' legendary offensive line — protecting Troy Aikman and opening holes for Emmitt Smith during the dynasty years of the 1990s.
After retiring from the NFL, Erik founded the Erik Williams Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants in the areas of faith, education, athletics, and job training for underserved youth. His lifelong mission: to be a role model and improve the quality of life for the next generation.
“Honoring Legacy. Gold Jackets & Black College Legends — Uniting Faith, Family and Football for a Greater Purpose.”
Additional Honors & Awards
From Philly Streets
to Canton’s Hall of Fame
Philadelphia, PA
Born & Raised
Grew up in the inner city of Philadelphia, developing character, faith, and a love for football that would shape his entire life.
Central State Univ.
HBCU Champion
Attended Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio — an HBCU — where he anchored the offensive line that led CSU to the #1 ranking in total offense and the first-ever NAIA National Championship.
1991 NFL Draft
Dallas Cowboys
Selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 3rd round of the 1991 NFL Draft. Went on to become one of the most dominant offensive linemen of his era, protecting Troy Aikman and opening lanes for Emmitt Smith.
1993–1996
Dynasty Years
Won three Super Bowl Championships with the Cowboys (Super Bowls XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX). Named to the All-Madden Team seven times and earned three All-Pro selections.
Post-NFL
Erik Williams Foundation
After retiring from the NFL, Erik founded the Erik Williams Foundation, providing scholarships and grants in faith, education, athletics, and job training for underserved youth.
Sept 6, 2026
Keynote Speaker — Canton, Ohio
Returns to Ohio — the state where he became a champion at Central State University — to deliver the keynote address at the 7th Annual BCFHOF Classic Interfaith Service at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
A Morning of Worship, Unity
& Inspiration
Join us for an uplifting morning of faith, community, and celebration inside the Gold Jacket Lounge at the Pro Football Hall of Fame — open to all.
Worship
Live music, praise dance, and spiritual reflection led by Pastor Lance and special performers
Unity
Pastors, ministers, players, fans, and families — all coming together as one community
Inspiration
Keynote address by Erik G. Williams — three-time Super Bowl Champion and HBCU alumnus
Pastors · Ministers · Players · Fans · Families
Free Museum Tour available before the service · Refreshments provided
Be There. Sunday, September 6, 2026.
Gold Jacket Lounge · Pro Football Hall of Fame · Free Admission
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