Kevin Williams

National Football League defensive tackle Kevin Williams plays with the Minnesota Vikings.

On December 24, 2008, news agencies reported that the reason why Kevin Williams took a banned diuretic was because of a $400,000 incentive bonus if he achieved a specific weight during weigh-ins throughout the year. Williams tested positive for a banned weight loss substance in October of 2008.ESPN.com: [Vikings explain why they took banned diuretic] (December 24, 2008)

Williams was one of several players who tested positive for a water pill, which can be used to mask steroids in drug testing. He missed playing time in November of 2008 while appealing the ruling. Williams is expected to receive a four-game suspension relation to the offense.ESPN.com: Vikings' Williamses back in practice after doping hearings

Following his college football career with the Oklahoma State Cowboys, Williams was selected ninth overall in the 2003 NFL draft by the Vikings. He made his NFL debut that same year, playing in all 16 regular season games and recording 51 total tackles. His numbers improved in 2004, totaling 70 tackles and 11.5 sacks. His performance in 2004 earned him a selection to the Pro Bowl. Williams has been invited to play in the Pro Bowl two additional times, in 2006 and 2007.