With the start of the college football season, many new faces are hitting the field, but only a few make an immediate impact. On Saturday, Alabama’s freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams stood out during the Crimson Tide’s game against Western Kentucky. At just 17 years old, Williams made an impressive debut, scoring two touchdowns in the first half on receptions of 84 and 55 yards.
Williams, already showing strong chemistry with quarterback Jalen Milroe and adapting well to new head coach Kalen DeBoer’s offensive scheme, is expected to play a significant role as Alabama progresses into the tougher SEC games.
Here’s a closer look at Ryan Williams, the standout freshman who has emerged as Alabama’s Week 1 sensation.
A native of Saraland, Alabama, Williams was a five-star recruit and the third-best wide receiver in the 2024 class. Despite being only 17, he reclassified from the 2025 class last December to join Alabama this season. Earlier this year, he earned his second Alabama Sports Writers Association’s Mr. Football award, becoming the first player to win it consecutively.
Williams originally committed to Alabama in October 2022 but decommitted following Nick Saban’s retirement, exploring options at Texas A&M. Ultimately, he recommitted to Alabama in January, solidifying his spot in the highly-ranked 2024 recruiting class.
Known by the nickname “Hollywood,” which has been with him since childhood due to his athletic prowess, Williams made a notable debut with two crucial receptions in Alabama’s 42-0 halftime lead over Western Kentucky. His standout performance in the first half, with 129 yards and two touchdowns, set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season for the young receiver.
