NFL legend Doug Williams uses football to inspire Baton Rouge youth

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – In Louisiana, football is more than just a game. It’s a way of life.

“Football has been my life,” NFL legend Doug Williams said.

Williams returned to Baton Rouge this week to host his annual youth football skills camp at Memorial Stadium.

The camp aims to teach more than just plays and drills. It’s about preparing young athletes for success both on and off the field.

“For me to get an opportunity to come back, not that I ever left, but to come back and do this, I think that’s part of my duty,” Doug Williams said.

Campers received hands-on training from former college and professional athletes, including Williams’ former players from his time coaching at Grambling State University.

Among them was Baton Rouge native Chad Williams, a former NFL wide receiver who played under Doug Williams in college. Chad Williams said the camp is about more than football.

“We come from a city that a lot of people might shun, but there’s a lot of love here in Baton Rouge. We want to capture as many kids as we can and show them there are other opportunities out there,” Chad Williams said.

The young athletes were taught valuable life lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, and the importance of hard work.

“It ain’t just about the game,” Doug Williams said. “There’s a lot more that comes with it.”

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