Doug Williams was the Buccaneers’ first-round draft pick (17th overall) in the 1978 NFL Draft out of Grambling State, tasked with revitalizing a struggling franchise in need of a long-term quarterback. In his rookie season, he made 10 starts and secured four wins, then continued as the starter for the next four seasons. In 1979, he led the Buccaneers to the NFC Central Division title and a spot in the NFC Championship Game, followed by another division title in 1981.
Over his four years as the starting quarterback (1979-82), Williams led the team to a winning record in three seasons and started all 57 regular-season games, ranking seventh in passing yards (11,369), tenth in touchdown passes (66), and seventh in interception rate (3.8%). He also led all quarterbacks with 856 rushing yards and tied for the most rushing touchdowns (12).
After playing in the USFL (1984-85), he joined the Washington Redskins in 1987, where he was named Super Bowl XXII MVP after 18-of-29 passes for 340 yards with four touchdown passes defeating Denver. The Buccaneers wouldn’t make the playoffs again for 15 years, until the franchise was purchased by Malcolm Glazer.