What’s Going On with Ryan Williams? Alabama’s Star Sophomore Has Gone Quiet-But Don’t Count Him Out Yet
A year ago, Ryan Williams looked like the next big thing in college football. As a 17-year-old freshman, he didn’t just flash potential-he delivered.
Week after week, he made plays that turned heads and earned him a spot in the national conversation. Every time he touched the ball, it felt like something electric could happen.
And yes, fans got used to hearing broadcasters remind them of his age, but the hype was warranted-he was that good.
Fast forward to this season, and the narrative has shifted. Williams’ production has taken a noticeable dip-42 catches, 631 yards, and 4 touchdowns.
Those aren’t bad numbers by any stretch, but they’re a step back from what many expected after his breakout freshman year. The drop in stats isn’t just a footnote-it’s become a storyline.
What’s going on? It’s not just about the numbers.
There have been some key drops this season, and more importantly, long stretches where Williams just hasn’t been involved. At times, it’s felt like Alabama’s coaching staff has gone away from him in the game plan.
Whether it’s a matter of trust, scheme fit, or confidence, something’s clearly off.
The most recent example came in Alabama’s comeback win over Oklahoma. The Crimson Tide were down 17-0 before rattling off 34 unanswered points.
You’d think a player like Williams would’ve been part of that rally. Instead, he caught just one pass-for five yards-and it came late in the game when Alabama was already in clock-killing mode.
Ty Simpson threw the ball 29 times in that game. That Williams wasn’t targeted until the final moments speaks volumes.
Meanwhile, other receivers have stepped up. Germie Bernard has emerged as a go-to option, and both Isaiah Horton and Lotzeir Brooks are putting together stronger seasons. It’s not that Williams isn’t talented-he absolutely is-but right now, he’s not the focal point of this offense.
That said, Alabama still has championship aspirations, and if they’re going to get there, they’re going to need Ryan Williams to find his rhythm again. Head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb have to figure out how to get their dynamic playmaker back on track.
Because when Williams is locked in, he’s not just good-he’s a game-breaker. He stretches defenses, creates mismatches, and brings the kind of explosiveness that can flip a game in a single snap.
There’s still time. And if Williams can find his footing heading into the postseason, Alabama’s offense could reach another level.
The Crimson Tide don’t just need him to be solid-they need him to be special. Because at his best, Ryan Williams is one of the most exciting players in the country.