Aneyas Williams: Ready for a Breakout Year at Notre Dame
In South Bend, Aneyas Williams, Notre Dame's standout junior running back, is gearing up for the 2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose and a healthy right elbow. Shedding the protective sleeve, Williams is all smiles as he dives into spring practices, donning a red jersey to remind teammates to take it easy on him, yet fully participating in team drills.
“I’m right where I want to be,” Williams confidently shares, highlighting his impressive recovery. “I’ve been doing everything.
There hasn’t been much restriction. The red jersey is just a precaution.”
Williams' stats from his first two seasons speak volumes: an average of 8.4 yards per touch and seven touchdowns. With Jeremiah Love and Jadarian Price moving on to the NFL, Williams is poised to lead a promising backfield that includes redshirt freshman Nolan James Jr., power runner Kedren Young, and newcomers Jonaz Walton and Javian Osborne.
Williams embraces the opportunity, saying, “With JD and J-Love gone, the opportunity is there. We’re not looking to take any steps back in the running back room. I trust these guys to step up.”
His commitment to Notre Dame was solidified after a challenging sophomore year. Despite a reduced workload due to an early season end, Williams chose to stay, placing his trust in head coach Marcus Freeman and position coach Ja’Juan Seider, who joined from Penn State.
“I like to think before I react,” Williams reflects on his decision to avoid the transfer portal. “It’s Year 3.
I’m in the perfect position to get everything I want. I trusted Coach Seider and this team.”
Williams is ready to seize the moment, understanding the bigger picture and the potential for a standout season. With his health and mindset in top form, Notre Dame fans can expect big things from this talented running back.