William Gholston Bio
William Gholston is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Michigan State Spartans and was selected by the Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2013 NFL draft.
Early Life and Background
William Gholston was born on July 31, 1991, in Detroit, Michigan, USA. He attended Mumford High School in Detroit, where he was recognized as a USA Today High School All-American in 2008. For his senior year, he transferred to Southeastern High School, recording a career-best 115 tackles with 44 resulting in losses, including seven sacks. He also forced 10 fumbles and blocked two punts during his senior season.
Considered a five-star recruit by Rivals.com, Gholston was rated as the third-best strong side defensive end in the nation. He accepted a scholarship from Michigan State University, choosing the Spartans over offers from Michigan and Ohio State.
Path to American Football
Gholston enrolled at Michigan State University and played for the Spartans from 2010 to 2012. As a freshman, he appeared in the first 10 games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. He recorded 13 tackles and five quarterback hurries that season. In 2011, he became a full-time starter, leading the Spartan defensive linemen with 70 tackles and tying for seventh in the Big Ten Conference with 16 tackles for loss. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors that year.
In the 2012 Outback Bowl, Gholston tied a Spartan bowl record with five tackles for loss, including a career-best two sacks, helping Michigan State to a triple overtime victory. As a junior in 2012, he led the Spartan defensive linemen again and ranked fourth on the team with 59 tackles. He also led the team with 4.5 sacks and earned the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl Defensive MVP award.
William Gholston Career
Early Career (2013–2016)
Gholston declared for the NFL draft after his junior year and was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round with the 126th overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft. He signed a four-year contract worth $2,560,544, including a signing bonus of $400,544. During his rookie season, he was a rotational player, recording 30 combined tackles and two quarterback sacks.
In 2014, Gholston became the starting left defensive end after an injury to Adrian Clayborn but later returned to a rotational role. He finished the season with 41 tackles and two sacks. Over the next two years, he continued to develop, playing in all 16 games in 2015 with 67 tackles and three sacks, and in 2016 recording 49 tackles and three sacks.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Era (2017–Present)
On March 6, 2017, Gholston signed a five-year contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He remained a key part of the Buccaneers’ defensive line rotation. In 2020, Gholston was briefly placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list but returned to play in all four playoff games that culminated in the Buccaneers winning Super Bowl LV.
Gholston re-signed with the Buccaneers in 2022 and played in 17 games with nine starts, recording 49 tackles. He continued his tenure with the team by re-signing again in July 2023, maintaining his role as a veteran presence on the defensive line.
Driving Style and Strengths
William Gholston is known for his versatility and consistency on the defensive line. His ability to play both as a starter and in a rotational role demonstrates his adaptability. Gholston combines strength and technique to disrupt opposing offenses, contributing effectively in pass rushing and run defense.
Notable Events and Milestones
Gholston’s career highlights include winning Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and earning second-team All-Big Ten honors twice during his college career. He also received the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl Defensive MVP award in 2012, marking significant milestones in his football journey.
William Gholston Career Wins
Throughout his career, William Gholston has been a valuable defensive player contributing to team successes, including a Super Bowl championship. While defensive statistics such as tackles and sacks highlight his individual performance, his impact extends to key team victories and playoff appearances.
Other Wins & Perfromances
Gholston’s collegiate achievements include multiple All-Big Ten selections and a bowl game MVP award. His professional career is marked by steady contributions to the Buccaneers’ defense and participation in their championship-winning season.
William Gholston Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
William Gholston is a cousin of former Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Vernon Gholston, indicating a family connection to professional football.
Personal Life
In preparation for the 2021 NFL season, Gholston began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Cassio Cardosi, using the martial art to enhance his athletic performance. Further personal details remain private.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, William Gholston continues his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, bringing veteran experience to the defensive line. His consistent performance and leadership contribute to the team’s defensive strategies. Gholston’s ongoing presence is expected to support the Buccaneers’ efforts in the upcoming NFL season.