Proven
Starter
by Rams Nation writer - - Oscar F Lopez
The Year was 1991, the team was the Phoenix Cardinals.
The player chosen was disclosed as a third round selection named Aeneas
Williams from Souther University. Born 1/29/1968 in New Orleans,La. Aeneas
was a hard working kid who set his goals high and let his work ethic show
him to Southern University. He was an oustanding player.
His arrival to the NFL , sadly placed him in a team with a horrid franchise
history for losing.The Cardinals franchise can be summed up as pathetic.
They have changed coaches,general managers,quarterbacks, coordinators,
cities,city name, and are still one of the worst franchises in NFL history.
So optimism was a good word to start with back in 1991. In the 1992 season,
Aeneas began to evolve into a good solid cornerback.
The critics began to take notice.
Some of the words to describe Aeneas were durable,anchor, best, great,
and consummate pro. In his 10yrs as a Cardinal, Aeneas was the standard
for the franchise's cornerbacks. His gameplay proved to the Cardinals
that he was serious about winning. By 1996, Aeneas was considered a Pro
Bowler and was showing it week after week. The press was impressed with
his commitment to make the defense standout.The reviews were in. He was
the only threat in the secondary.
The Cardinals by 1996 were no better than 1991. Williams established himself
as one of the best cornerbacks in the game. He was a key player in the
Cards defensive stands against the run. The reality was plain and simple.
It was Williams and a bunch of nameless fillings who rarely made plays.
To quote Aeneas on his optimism in 1996. He explained by stating "I
think that's a very real possibility", I wouldn't have stayed if
i didn't think that was possible. It is . We have a good base of talent
-we just need to fill in some areas." He of course was referring
to the hopeful changes to better the team and his franchise record pay
increase making him the highest paid player on the team.
His 6 interceptions, 2 returns for touchdowns, and his 72 yard blocked
return field goal against Carolina were the highlight of his 1996 season.
Competition and wanting to win are facts of life. For Aeneas Williams
being financially successful, having fun, competing hard, and never winning
was something to think about. It's been said " Winning isn't everything,
it's the only thing."
After 10 seasons and only one playoff appearance. Aeneas began a new journey.
The consummate pro, tireless worker who refuses to get beat, decided to
pursue free agency elsewhere. The six time Pro Bowler at the time. Aeneas
came with a proven record. He has averaged 50 tackles and 10.5 sacks in
his great career. His interception numbers are not bad either. When the
Rams began to assemble the Lovie Smith concept, Aeneas knew it was time
to move on and get a chance at a ring with a well coached team. This was
not about money. It was about championship opportunity.
His legacy in the Desert will forever be remembered. Someday his number
35 will be honored in Cardinals history. Until then he has chosen to win
big before the retirement party begins. His leadership qualities truly
came through in 2000-2001. For the Rams, Aeneas brings instant respect.
His 4 tackles and 2 interceptions in the game against the 49ers, truly
showed what he is all about. And in the NFC title game, his 4th quarter
interception on McNabb sealed the Rams 29-24 victory.
To sum up Aeneas Williams and what he has meant to the Rams. Torry Holt
spoke of Aeneas , " If you can go up against Aeneas and win some
battles against him, you come out of that day feeling pretty good. Lovie
Smith stated " Nothing against the rest of the players, not only
has Aeneas had a career year, but he's also our leader. It's hard to imagine
us making a leap like that without him".
Any questions or comments
email thefieldgoal@cs.com
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