The Minnesota Vikings stunned the football world by announcing the signing of Elijah Williams, an undrafted free agent (UDFA) defensive lineman from Jersey City, New Jersey, and a former standout at Morgan State University. This move not only marks a pivotal moment in Williams’ career but also underscores the potential of talents from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the NFL.
A Journey from Jersey City to the NFL Stage
Elijah Williams, standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 270 pounds, was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. He made waves at Lincoln High School, where he recorded an impressive 74 tackles (57 solo) in 10 games during his senior season. His talent earned him a spot at Morgan State University, an HBCU, where he continued to shine and became one of the most dominant defensive players in the history of the Morgan State Bears.
Over four seasons at Morgan State (2021–2024), Williams played in 42 games, amassing 216 tackles, 52 tackles for loss, 31 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. In his senior year of 2024, he led the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) with 11 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, 54 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 blocked field goal. These remarkable stats earned him the 2024 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year award, a nomination for the Buck Buchanan Award, which honors the top FCS defensive player, and selections to the Stats Perform All-American Second Team and AFCA All-American Second Team.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Williams is a role model off the field. According to Morgan State’s defensive line coach, Ramal Faunteroy, Williams is a high-character individual who leads by example and actively engages in community service. He graduated early before his senior year and was nicknamed “Mr. Morgan State” for his dedication and positive influence on campus life.
An Unexpected Opportunity with the Vikings
Despite a stellar college career, Elijah Williams went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, he seized the chance to prove himself. After impressing scouts at the Baltimore Ravens’ NFL Local Pro Day in April 2025, Williams earned an invitation to the Minnesota Vikings’ rookie minicamp as a tryout player. There, his explosive speed, relentless effort, and advanced skill set won over the Vikings’ coaching staff, leading to a contract and a spot on the team’s 91-man offseason roster.
The signing of Williams is seen as a bold move by the Vikings, especially since the team had already reached the maximum roster limit of 91 players (including an international exemption for Australian punter Oscar Chapman). While the contract is for the offseason phase, it represents a significant opportunity for Williams to compete for a spot on the 53-man active roster or at least the practice squad when the 2025 NFL season begins.
Potential and Challenges Ahead
Nicknamed “Agent Zero,” Elijah Williams brings rare versatility to the Vikings’ defensive line. Coach Faunteroy noted that Williams can play any position on the defensive front, from 9-technique (outside edge) to nose tackle. He’s also capable of dropping into coverage, chasing down running backs, or contributing on special teams. At Morgan State, he was even tested as a tight end or fullback in certain offensive packages.
At 6 feet 2 inches and 285 pounds, Williams is considered slightly undersized for an NFL defensive lineman. However, his explosive playstyle, refined technique, and relentless motor—demonstrated at the HBCU Legacy Bowl, a showcase for HBCU talent—have convinced the Vikings that he can make an immediate impact as an undrafted rookie.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell emphasized that opportunities in training camp are just the beginning of a long journey for rookies. For Williams, the upcoming Organized Team Activities (OTAs) on May 27–28 and the mandatory minicamp from June 10–12 will be critical moments to prove he belongs on the final roster.
A Broader Impact for HBCUs and Jersey City
Elijah Williams’ success is more than a personal triumph—it carries profound significance for the HBCU community and his hometown of Jersey City. He serves as a powerful example that talent from HBCUs can compete at the highest levels of professional football, inspiring future generations of athletes from similar backgrounds.
As Williams embarks on his NFL journey, his story resonates as one of perseverance, talent, and opportunity. For the Minnesota Vikings, signing this undrafted gem could prove to be a masterstroke, potentially unearthing a defensive star who defies the odds and leaves a lasting mark on the league.