Mario steps off the football field and into the life of Sophia Brown in a special NFL Characters Unite, airing Friday, February 6th at 7 p.m. on USA Network.
Brown's father died in Afghanistan when she was three, and as the brother-in-law of a fallen soldier, Williams is featured in the touching program relating to her story.
"When I heard Sophia's story I definitely grasped what she felt," said Williams in a short preview of the show. "I connected with her for the simple fact of I've lost someone in the military. It was emotional."
The two bonded over the actions they take when remembering their lost loved ones – Mario in saying a prayer for his brother-in-law when he hears the national anthem and Sophia in saying a prayer when she sees an American flag.
"It's very important for me to give her some thigns that I do or try to make positive out of the situation, things I do to handle it," he said.
"On Father's Day, everybody gets to make a special card or a picture for my dad but I just have to make something for my mom," said Brown. "Mario having the same experience as me made me feel safe."
In NFL Characters Unite, NFL stars share their stories and hardships with young people going through similar circumstances. This year's featured players included Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles, Eagles RB Darren Sproles and Seahawks CB Richard Sherman.
Be sure to tune into USA Network Friday night at 7 p.m. to catch a side of Mario different from what you see on the football field.
