University of Alabama commit Ryan “Hollywood” Williams has had a busy week.
Less than a week after announcing he would honor his original commitment to Tuscaloosa, Williams was in Montgomery for the Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) Mr. Football Banquet.
Williams, who won the prestigious award last season after leading Class 6A Saraland to its first-ever state title, has another outstanding season to become the first consecutive winner in the award's 42-year history.
He was also the first sophomore in history to win the award last season at just 15 years old.
Many notable stars have won the award, from JaMarcus Russell to Julio Jones to Bo Nix to Kool-Aid McKinstry, but Williams is the first player to win twice.
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In 2023, Williams caught over 70 passes for 1,320 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also rushed for nearly 300 yards, threw a touchdown pass, and scored two return touchdowns. As a sophomore in 2022, he improved even more, catching 88 passes for over 1,600 yards and over 40 total touchdowns.
After the 2023 season, Williams announced he would change ranks from 2025 to 2024 and attend college one year early.
in interview With a WNSP of 105.5 in Mobile, Williams coach Jeff Kelly had high praise for the receiver.
“To everyone around Ryan, this young man comes to work every day wanting to get better, without any accolades, as if no one knew his name. I’m motivated to win and do what I can to get better and help the team win,” Kelly said.
Williams is scheduled to officially sign on February 9, his 17th birthday.
Michael Brauner is a senior sports analyst and contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP
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