Williams earns coaching position with NFL’s Steelers

By Datti Jinkiri

Clinton native Isaac Williams has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers’ coaching staff.

A Clinton native is quickly making a name for himself and climbing up the football coaching ranks. Isaac Williams was hired as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ new assistant offensive line coach on March 15. This is his first foray into the National Football League’s (NFL) coaching ranks.

Williams was hired by the Steelers after a one-season stint with North Carolina Central University. Under his tutelage, the Eagles’ offensive line paved the way for the team to rush for 1,447 yards and 17 touchdowns. The team finished the season on a tear, winning its last three games to finish in second place in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) standings. At the conclusion of the season, two of the Eagles’ offensive linemen – Corey Bullock and Bruce Trigg – were named Second Team All-MEAC.

Before his stint in North Carolina, Williams also spent three years as an assistant coach with Morgan State University. He served as the run game coordinator, while also deputizing as both the tight ends coach and offensive line coach. He aided in the development of offensive tackle Joshua Miles, a 2019 draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals.

Williams began his college coaching career with the University of Northern Colorado where in 2016, he helped the team defeat powerhouse Montana for the first time. His offensive line helped running back Darius Graham rush for a career-high 130 yards and a touchdown in the game.

Before Williams entered the collegiate coaching ranks, he started his coaching career locally. He was an assistant coach with Sumner Hill Junior High School and Clinton High School. He also coached at Millsaps College.

Williams has extensive playing experience, as well. After graduating from Clinton High School, he played for Alcorn State University from 2008-2011. He was a starter on the Braves’ offensive line. After completing his college career, he played professionally for the Laredo Rattlesnakes of the Lone Star Football League, where he helped lead the team to the championship game.

The Steelers are a storied franchise whose six Super Bowl wins are tied for the most in NFL history. The team is coached by Mike Tomlin, a 15-year head coaching veteran. Williams, Tomlin, and the rest of the Steelers’ staff will be gearing up for the upcoming draft and training camp before starting the season in September.