Top 10 first-time eligible candidates for the Hall of Fame in 2021

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MINNEAPOLIS – SEPTEMBER 25: Kevin Williams #93 of the Minnesota Vikings rushes during an NFL game against the Detroit Lions at Mall of America Field at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, on September 25, 2011 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Tom Dahlin/Getty Images) /

5. Kevin Williams, DT, Minnesota Vikings

Safe to say that was a bit of confusion atop the first round of the 2003 NFL draft.

Some may recall that the Minnesota Vikings, who originally owned the number seven overall selection, wound up passing on the pick when they couldn’t complete a trade (via Len Pasquarelli of ESPN.com). They managed to get back in the fray at the ninth pick and would up choosing Oklahoma State defensive tackle Kevin Williams.

Regardless of the circumstances, the team wound up with quite the player. He would spend 11 seasons in the Twin Cities and not only earned six Pro Bowl invitations but was named All-Pro five times. The versatile performer could play inside or outside but earned his bones at defensive tackle.

Williams finished his days with the Vikings with 60 sacks, to go along with 18 takeaways. He also knew his way to the end zone as he returned two of his five career interceptions for scores. Williams also scooped up 13 opponent’s fumbles and took back two for touchdowns. He spent 2014 with the Seahawks and his final year with the Saints in ’15.

The Vikings’ defensive lines are well represented in Canton, Ohio via Alan Page, Carl Eller and John Randle. Could Williams be up next?

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