Reggie Williams, a third-round pick (82nd overall) in the 1976 NFL Draft from Dartmouth, arrived in Cincinnati as an extraordinarily intelligent, relentless linebacker. Stepping straight into the lineup, he went on to play his entire 14-year professional career in a Bengals uniform, serving as the dependable anchor on the right side of the defense through two Super Bowl runs.

Williams integrated sharp diagnostic skills with impressive durability and disciplined play at linebacker. As a right-side linebacker in both 4-3 and 3-4 formations, he was adept at anticipating offensive moves before the snap, penetrating blocks to halt the run, and timing blitzes to pressure the quarterback. His intelligent, strategic approach consistently made him a key defensive leader amid scheme and coaching changes.

Williams secured a starting position as a rookie in 1976 and maintained it without pause. Although national award voters often ignored his consistent contributions—resulting in no Pro Bowl selections—his importance to Cincinnati was clear. He was a vital defensive leader for the 1981 AFC Champion Bengals, contributing to the franchise's first Super Bowl XVI appearance. In the strike-shortened 1982 season, Williams topped the NFL with four fumble recoveries and also recorded 2.5 sacks.

As the 1980s progressed, Williams remained a fixture on the field. He compiled 62.5 total career sacks—41.0 of which were officially recorded after the NFL began tracking the stat in 1982—demonstrating a consistent ability to generate edge pressure on third downs. His longevity and leadership capped off another championship run in 1988, when he helped guide the Bengals back to the postseason and to an appearance in Super Bowl XXIII.

In addition to his durability on the field, Williams emerged as a key figure in the Cincinnati community. His wide-ranging philanthropic activities and civic leadership culminated in 1986, when he received the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award, originally called the Byron "Whizzer" White Humanitarian Award.

Williams spent 14 seasons with Cincinnati from 1976 to 1989, participating in 206 regular-season games, including 196 starts. He is among a select few in franchise history to surpass 200 games and achieved an Approximate Value (AV) of 92 with the team. During his tenure, Williams recorded 62.5 sacks (41.0 officially credited), recovered 23 fumbles, started in two Super Bowls (XVI and XXIII), and was honored as the 1986 NFL Man of the Year.