It has not been a shock to Alabama football fans to hear veteran players and Kalen DeBoer speak highly of freshman wide receiver, Ryan Williams at Southeastern Conference Media Days in Dallas, Texas.
The talented five-star has positioned himself to be in a conversation with Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III, DeVonta Smith, and Jaylen Waddle in terms of freshmen getting playing time at receiver for the Crimson Tide.
RELATED: Kalen DeBoer details how Tide staff got Ryan Williams to commit back to Alabama
Williams, a product of Saraland (Ala.) High School, has impressed Coach DeBoer with his commitment, work ethic, practice habits, and desire to make an impact since he arrived in the summer. The 17-year-old had Jalen Milroe, Malachi Moore, and Tyler Booker raving about him to reporters. Williams, who reclassified from 2025 to 2024, was a two-time “Mr. Football” winner for the state of Alabama and two-time Gatorade Player of the Year. The 6-foot-1, 165-pounder is an electric talent, and the Tide cannot wait to see him make plays on the field. DeBoer had an interview with Ryan Fowler of Tide 100.9 FM about what has impressed him the most about Williams. He is excited to work with the freshman and sees him as a playmaker in this offense.
During a one-on-one interview with Kalen DeBoer, I asked him about Ryan Williams ( @Ryanwms1 ) and the impact that he could make on the football team.
I think you will like DeBoer’s answer. pic.twitter.com/oY3cgAlOCO
— Ryan C. Fowler (@RyanCFowler) July 19, 2024
“The thing that has jumped out to me is the maturity he has,” DeBoer said Wednesday about Williams.
DeBoer praised Williams’ commitment to practice the right way, taking care of his body correctly, and even having the proper sleeping habits. He also stated that Williams has gone above and beyond to learn the offense.
“It is very evident he has made a strong commitment to being a great player sooner than later,” DeBoer said.
“I am excited to have the chance to work with him in a couple of weeks, and I’m excited about the plays he will be making out there for our football team.”
Williams is continuing to put his stamp on him being a star for this team.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
