Williams played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he was a standout performer. He was selected by the Washington Redskins (now Washington Commanders) in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Williams has been named to multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro teams throughout his career. In 2020, he was traded to the 49ers and later signed a six-year, $138 million contract, making him one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in NFL history.