This week in Lower Delta history.
William “Nasty” Roaf born April 18, 1970, in Pine Bluff
William Layton Roaf was born on April 18, 1970, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He graduated from Pine Bluff High School, where he played football and basketball. Roaf earned a scholarship to Louisiana Tech University and played for the Bulldogs from 1989 to 1992. He was known for his blocking and speed and was named a consensus first-team All-American. Roaf was a finalist for the Outland Trophy, awarded to the best college offensive lineman. He was selected in the first round of the 1993 NFL Draft and played 13 seasons as an offensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints and Kansas City Chiefs. Roaf appeared in 11 Pro Bowls and was named All-Pro nine times. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014. His connection to Pine Bluff remains a key part of his legacy.