Alabama fans and Seattle Seahawk lovers received positive news Thursday, as defensive tackle Jesse Williams took to Twitter to express his physical condition. The former Alabama standout was diagnosed with papillary type two cancer on May 18, 2015. He had surgery on his kidneys, and released a statement saying that he’s been medically cleared to workout.

https://twitter.com/ThaMonstar/status/609055677332324352

Williams, 24, spent the last two seasons on injury reserve because of knee problems. He has two NFC Conference titles, and a Super Bowl ring, but no quality field experience

Seattle selected the Australian in the fifth round (137^th overall pick) of the 2013 NFL Draft.

Williams, who stands at 6-foot-4, 325 pounds, excels against the run, but needs to develop lower body strength. He totaled 76 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, six sacks and four forced fumbles in two seasons at Arizona Western Community College (2009, 2010).

Williams became a fan favorite at Alabama in 2011 and 2012. With a “Yolo” tattoo and a smile, Williams put in two solid seasons at nose for the Crimson Tide. He accounted for 61 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, seven quarterback hurries and a blocked kick. Williams was a Southeastern Conference champion in 2012, and a two-time BCS national champion.

Stephen M. Smith is a staff writer and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.

Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.