TRIBUTES are pouring in after the sudden death of a former NFL offensive lineman.

The former NFL guard died yesterday while going through a morning work out.
Cleveland Browns v Pittsburgh SteelersFormer NFL star Larry Williams has diedCredit: Getty
NINTCHDBPICT001031700291Williams died during a morning work out at the University of San FranciscoCredit: Instagram @donsathletics
Ex-NFL star Larry Williams has died from a heart-related illness at the age of 62.

He was the athletic director at the University of San Francisco.

His death occurred at the college’s War Memorial Gym.

The Orange, California native attended Notre Dame before joining the Cleveland Browns in 1985.

He was picked with the 259th pick during the tenth round of the 1985 NFL Draft.

Williams played in 42 games for the Cleveland franchise between 1986 and 1988.

The guard underwent shoulder surgery in January 1989 and joined the San Diego Chargers later that year.

He spent two seasons with the Chargers before arriving at the New Orleans Saints for the 1991 season.

Williams retired a year later after one final campaign with the New England Patriots.

He later joined the University of Portland Pirates as their athletic director 2004, where he would spend the next eight years.

This was followed by a two-year move to the Marquette Golden Eagles before joining the Akron Zips in 2015.

Williams finally joined the San Francisco Dons in 2022, where he would remain until his death.

University of San Francisco president Salvador D. Aceves has led a wave of tributes for Williams.

“Our prayers go out to Larry’s wife, Laura, their children, Kristin, Sean, Scott, Eric, and Louis, their families, and his grandchildren,” Aceves said.

“My thoughts and prayers also go to the university’s 250 student-athletes and all of the coaches and staff under Larry’s skillful watch.”

The Portland Pilots have also shared a touching tribute to their former staff member.

“His enduring legacy lies not only in these accomplishments,” the statement read.

but in the integrity passion, and steadfast commitment he brought to student-athletes and the core values of intercollegiate athletics.”

His alma mater Notre Dame has also released a statement following Williams’ death.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Larry Williams,” Notre Dame posted on X. “We send our condolences to his family and friends.”