Alabama's Ryan Williams seems to be dealing with more than injuries in SEC play

As the youngest player in the FBS, Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams made an immediate impact during his freshman season in 2024. 

The five-star recruit finished the year with 48 receptions for 865 yards and eight receiving touchdowns, adding two rushing scores for a total of 10 touchdowns. His breakout performance against Georgia was highlighted by several good plays, drawing early comparisons to Alabama great DeVonta Smith.

Entering the 2025 season, expectations were high. Yet through Week 9, Williams’ sophomore campaign has seen a statistical dip. He has totaled 33 receptions for 495 yards and three touchdowns with no rushing scores to date. His yards per catch have dropped from 18.0 to 15.0, and the explosive plays that defined his freshman year have been less frequent. 

There have been injuries this year which have played a factor for Williams. He had one target against Missouri and wasn't involved in Alabama's offensive game plan in two games this season. Kalen DeBoer cited an injury as the setback, which has since been resolved.

While he remains a key contributor for the Tide, the contrast in production has sparked debate about whether NIL demands, increased media scrutiny and heightened expectations are affecting his consistency?

More: Nick Saban gives Lane Kiffin advice on the LSU opening

In today’s college football landscape, players like Williams must balance performance and marketability. NIL opportunities provide financial independence and national visibility, but they also introduce distractions that can impact preparation and focus. 

For Williams, managing brand commitments while adapting to a larger offensive role has shaped the rhythm time at Alabama. However, through two years, the contrast is clear with a midseason slump compared with his explosive debut.

With four games remaining in the regular season, Williams has time to regain his stride. His athleticism remains elite, and Alabama’s offense continues to create opportunities for big plays. How he responds down the stretch will determine whether he can finish the season strong and reassert himself as one of college football’s brightest young stars.

More college football news: 

• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Was Adidas behind James Franklin's firing? Penn State breaks silence on rumor
• Brian Kelly buyout, contract details as LSU Tigers coach
• Indiana coach Curt Cignetti's salary bump of 2,729% in four years is insane
• Paul Finebaum tells Dabo Swinney 'Time is up' at Clemson