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WILLIE LANIER

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Willie Lanier never really planned on being a professional football player. He wanted to go to college, study business and then find a job back home in Virginia. Willie Lanier's goals were delayed a bit, but he doesn't mind. Lanier did go to college, complete a business degree and go into business - after an 11-year illustrious career as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.

After graduating from Maggie Walker High School and Morgan State University where he was a two-time Small College All-American and MVP of the Tangerine Bowl he was selected as a second round draft pick for the Chiefs. Known as an intelligent, disciplined player his speed and agility helped him grab 27 career interceptions and 15 fumble recoveries. Missing only 5 games during his entire pro career, Lanier played middle linebacker for 11 years with a hard hitting tackling style that made him one of the best run stoppers in the history of professional football.

Named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary team, number 42 by The Sporting News Greatest Football Players of all time, MVP of the 1971 Pro Bowl, 1972 NFL Man of the Year, Willie played in two AFL All-Star games and five AFC-NFC Pro Bowls. His stellar play helped the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV.

Willie Lanier became the second Chief to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the class of 1986. He lives in Richmond, VA where he is vice president of Wheat First Securities where he has put his business administration degree to work helping clients across the country within the capital markets division.