Former Gophers Tight End is 3rd Generation NFL Draftee

ST. PAUL (AP) - Former Minnesota Gophers tight end Maxx Williams heads into the NFL draft this week, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

The Waconia native is widely regarded as the top tight end prospect in the draft, which begins Thursday night in Chicago. Williams will be a third generation draftee.

His grandfather, Dr. Bob Williams, played quarterback at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1959 in the 28th round. He passed up pro football to enter medical school.

Maxx's father, Brian Williams, was a first-round pick for the New York Giants as a center in 1989. He played 11 seasons for the Giants.

Maxx says he knows his life will change drastically very soon. He opted to turn pro after his redshirt sophomore season at Minnesota.