William Gholston, a prominent figure in American football, currently serves as the defensive end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. His journey from his roots in Detroit to the grand stage of Super Bowl LV victory is nothing short of inspiring.
Born on July 31, 1991, in Detroit, Michigan, Gholston was raised in a football-loving family. With a cousin, Vernon Gholston, already making waves in the NFL, William's path to the gridiron seemed destined.
William-Gholston is a passout from Southeastern SchoolImage Source: Instagram Excelling at Mumford High School and later at Southeastern High School, he showcased his talent, earning accolades as a top-tier recruit.
Gholston's prowess continued to shine during his tenure with the Michigan State Spartans from 2010 to 2012. Despite facing setbacks like injuries, he emerged as a standout player, drawing attention from NFL scouts.
Opting to enter the 2013 NFL Draft after his junior year, he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round.
William-Gholston was signed to Tampa Bay BuccaneersImage Source: Instagram William Gholston inked a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers worth $2,667,500, with $1,317,500 guaranteed. This deal reflects an average annual salary of $2,667,500. His current net worth is estimated to be $20 million.
Since joining the Buccaneers, Gholston has been a consistent force on the field. From his rookie season to the recent Super Bowl triumph in 2021, his contributions have been invaluable.
Noteworthy is his contract extension in 2017, signaling the team's faith in his abilities.
William Gholston is involved in several charitable causes, especially those related to cancer research and health disparities. He donated $225,000 to the Moffitt Cancer Center in 2021 to aid the research in cancer health disparities, including breast, colon and prostate cancers, which disproportionately affect Black men and women. He made the donation in honor of his parents, who both battled cancer.
William's father died from lung cancer, and his uncle died from prostate cancer. His mother survived breast cancer multiple times. He said he hoped his donation would help others who are fighting or may have to fight cancer in the future.
Gholston also supports the George Edgecomb Society, a part of the Moffitt Cancer Center, which targets the elimination of health disparities among African Americans.
William Gholston's football career has seen its share of controversies, primarily concerning his behavior on the field. In 2011, during a heated rivalry game, he was suspended for one game by the Big Ten for striking Michigan offensive lineman Taylor Lewan in the face. Gholston publicly apologized for his actions, expressing remorse for losing his composure.
Subsequently, in 2013, the NFL fined him $15,750 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson. Gholston maintained that he had no intention of causing harm and was simply trying to execute a play.
Additionally, in 2016, he incurred a $9,115 fine from the NFL for a facemask penalty committed against Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton. Again, Gholston asserted that his actions were not deliberate, stating that he was merely attempting to make a tackle.
William Gholston, who serves as a defensive end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is recognized for his robust style of play during games. Standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 278 pounds, he possesses a blend of size, power, and agility that sets him apart. Gholston's imposing physical attributes enable him to excel in both stopping the run and pressuring quarterbacks effectively.
His adaptability as an athlete is evident in his capacity to disrupt opposing offenses through a combination of strength and technique. Gholston consistently demonstrates his prowess on the field, establishing himself as a formidable presence on the defensive line and a vital asset for the Buccaneers.
William Gholston hails from a football-loving family that provides unwavering support for his career. His parents, William Gholston Sr. and Dawn Ward, have been instrumental in his journey.
William-Gholston with his familyImage Source: Instagram Tragically, Gholston lost his father to lung cancer in 2008, while his mother bravely battled and survived breast cancer.
Despite being an only child, Gholston shares a close bond with his cousin, Vernon Gholston, who also pursued a career in the NFL as a defensive end. Although Vernon's professional football tenure was brief following his selection by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, William continues to cherish their familial connection.
In his personal life, William Gholston is married to Brittany, and together they are raising three children: William IV, Braylon, and Brooklyn.
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