He arrived at the University of Alabama as a top in-state prospect and one of the best running backs in the 2020 class.
Roydell Williams was a versatile back at Hueytown (Ala.) High School and Coach Nick Saban brought him to the Crimson Tide.
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He worked in a role as a freshman on Alabama’s 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship team, but his role increased last year after an injury to Jase McClellan. Williams had 284 yards rushing and a touchdown on 48 carries while catching five passes for 57 yards and a score. The 5-foot-10, 212-pounder sustained a season-ending knee injury versus New Mexico State at Bryant-Denny Stadium. It took patience for Williams to work himself back, but the junior told reporters on Tuesday that he ‘feels great again’ after the injury. He thanked Jeff Allen and the Crimson Tide’s training staff for their efforts.
Williams has 31 carries for 147 yards and a touchdown. He is averaging nearly five yards (4.7) per rushing attempt.
“The training staff has done a great job,” Williams said about how he feels coming off an injury. “I’ve gotten my speed back up, I can cut again and I am comfortable cutting on this leg. I have been very good out there. I have been getting comfortable with the offense, so it has been good.”
Williams said he had to master the mental part of the game as he recovered from his injury.
“One day it’s sore, one day it feels good,” Williams said about dealing with a knee injury. “I learned to keep my composure and go on about how it feels and work on it.”
Patience was tough for Williams, but he feels back to himself.
He has performed well this season in the series he’s had on offense. Williams has shown his power, speed, burst, cutting abilities, receiving skills, and pass-blocking skills. Alabama takes on LSU next week at Tiger Stadium, and Williams looks forward to being impactful in the matchup.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
