Erik Williams

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Erik Williams (born September 7, 1968) is a former American football Offensive Tackle who played most of his career with the Dallas Cowboys (1991-2000). Williams was a four time Pro Bowler attending the game in 1993, 1996, 1997, and 1999. His ability to protect quarterback Troy Aikman and to run-block for running back Emmitt Smith helped the Cowboys win Super Bowls in 1993, 1994, and 1996.

Many believe the NFL's implementation of the Hands to the Face penalty was at least partly a result of Williams' use of the tactic early in his career. As a result, Williams was limited in his effectiveness in the later parts of his career.

He also played 5 games for the Baltimore Ravens in 2001.

He attended Central State University.

In 1997, Williams was involved in a high-profile sexual assault case when a Dallas woman, Nina Shahravan, falsely accused Williams and teammate Michael Irvin of raping her at Williams's home. A police investigation determined that no assault had a occurred and were able to confirm that Irvin was not at Williams's home on the date in question. Confronted with the evidence gathered by the police, Shahravan recanted her story. She was charged with perjury and filing a false police report. In a plea bargain, she pled guilty to perjury and was sentenced to 90 days in jail and a $1,500 fine.