This is massive for the Crimson Tide! On December 30, 2025, during Rose Bowl media day ahead of Alabama’s CFP quarterfinal against Indiana, star wide receiver Ryan Williams definitively stated he plans to return for his junior season in 2026. The former five-star phenom, who reclassified to join the program early as a 17-year-old, emphasized, “Of course. I’m Alabama through and through. I have no intentions of being anywhere else,” shutting down any transfer portal speculation despite a sophomore campaign that saw some ups and downs.
Williams burst onto the scene as a true freshman in 2024, earning first-team All-SEC and freshman All-America honors with 48 receptions for 865 yards and eight touchdowns—including that iconic acrobatic grab against Georgia. His explosive playmaking and after-the-catch ability made him one of the most electric talents in college football, even landing him on the cover of EA Sports College Football 26.
In 2025, the sophomore faced challenges, including a higher drop rate (second nationally at 14.3% with 10 drops) and injuries, finishing with 49 catches for 689 yards and four touchdowns across 14 games (12 starts). Despite the dip in production from his freshman explosion, teammates like QB Ty Simpson praised his selflessness and locker-room impact, while coach Kalen DeBoer remains confident in his growth. Williams showed flashes of brilliance, like a 165-yard, two-TD performance against Wisconsin, proving his elite upside remains intact.
His decision to stay provides a huge anchor for an Alabama offense that lost key pieces like Germie Bernard (graduated) and Isaiah Horton (portal) while navigating other departures. With returning talent like Lotzeir Brooks and incoming additions through the portal (including RB Hollywood Smothers), Williams—still just turning 19 in February 2026—could be poised for a monster bounce-back year as the WR1 in a reloaded passing attack.
This loyalty in the portal era is a statement for the program. Williams, who won’t be NFL-eligible until after 2026 (draft in 2027 due to his age), is betting on himself and Alabama to chase another title run. Fans are hyped—expect big things from Hollywood in Year 3!
Roll Tide gets a superstar back in the fold! The future looks bright with this commitment locked in. 🐘🏈
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