William Graham (American football)

William Graham played defensive back for the Texas Longhorns from 1979-1981. In 11 games in 1980, he recorded four interceptions. In 11 games in 1981 he recorded seven more, tying the school record,[1] leading the Southwest Conference and tied for third in the nation. His 11 career interceptions was fourth all-time at Texas.[2][3]

Graham was drafted in the 5th round by the Detroit Lions in the 1982 draft. He played in 7 games his rookie season, then fourteen (all but the first two, and all as a starter) in 1983 during which he recovered three fumbles as a free safety. In 1984, he started 13 of 14 games (missing two in late October due to an injury), recorded his first career interception in a Thanksgiving victory over Green Bay in week 13, and two more interceptions off former Lions quarterback Greg Landry in a season-finale loss to the Chicago Bears. In 1985, Graham started in all 16 games for the only time in his career. He again recorded 3 interceptions (including two in a week 11 victory over the Minnesota Vikings) and his only career sack. In 1987, Graham was no longer a starter, though he appeared in all 16 games and was used occasionally as a kickoff returner (3 returns for 72 yards). He appeared in just two games in 1988, and was released at the end of the season.[4] He is one of 16 players in Lions history with two or more multiple-interception games.[5]