RYAN WILLIAMS SHINES BRIGHT AS FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICAN: Alabama’s Rising Star Hits the Ground Running with FWAA Honor
Alabama football’s Ryan Williams received yet another accolade for his outstanding freshman season, as announced on Tuesday. The Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) named the wide receiver a freshman All-American for the 2024 season, adding to his growing list of achievements.
Williams, who arrived at the University of Alabama as a five-star recruit from Saraland High School, quickly made an impact on the Crimson Tide’s roster. Without delay, he earned a spot in the starting lineup as a wide receiver and also contributed on special teams as a punt returner. His versatility and consistent performance highlighted his value to the team throughout the season.
Among the freshman All-America team’s wide receivers, Williams stood alongside Clemson’s Bryant Wesco Jr. and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith. Williams was also recognized as one of the finalists for Offensive Freshman Player of the Year, a distinction he shared with South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers and Baylor running back Bryson Washington.
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 175 pounds, Williams proved to be a dominant force for Alabama’s offense in 2024. He led the team in receiving yards with 865 and in receiving touchdowns with eight, showcasing his ability to be a go-to target in critical moments. Additionally, he ranked second on the team in receptions with 48, underscoring his reliability and consistency as a playmaker.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer spoke highly of Williams during the season, emphasizing the wide receiver’s exceptional character and dedication. “Ryan’s a first-class guy all the way, through and through,” DeBoer said. “I love coaching him. He brings a great work ethic, smile, and all the things you want each and every day in practice.”
Williams’ impressive performance throughout the season earned him recognition beyond the FWAA honor. He was named a second-team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and received multiple accolades from the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The conference coaches voted him first-team All-SEC and selected him for the SEC All-Freshman Team. Additionally, the Associated Press awarded him second-team All-SEC honors, cementing his status as one of the top players in the league.
The FWAA freshman All-America team featured 14 offensive players, 13 defensive players, and five specialists. Williams was one of three wide receivers selected, joining a prestigious group of first-year players who made significant contributions to their teams.
Here is the complete list of the FWAA freshman All-America team for the 2024 season:
Offense (14 players):
Quarterbacks: DJ Lagway (Florida), LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina)
Running Backs: Ahmad Hardy (ULM), Bryson Washington (Baylor)
Wide Receivers: Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State), Bryant Wesco Jr. (Clemson), Ryan Williams (Alabama)
Tight End: Mason Williams (Ohio)
Offensive Linemen: Aidan Banfield (North Carolina), Tyler Mercer (North Texas), Elijah Paige (USC), Tyson Ruffins (Nevada), Jordan Seaton (Colorado), Josiah Thompson (South Carolina)
Defense (13 players):
Defensive Linemen: Jamarioius Brown (Ole Miss), Jayden Jackson (Oklahoma), Colin Simmons (Texas), Dylan Stewart (South Carolina)
Linebackers: Sammy Brown (Clemson), Isaiah Chisom (Oregon State), Josiah Trotter (West Virginia)
Cornerbacks: OJ Frederique Jr. (Miami), Ashton Hampton (Clemson), Leonard Moore (Notre Dame)
Safeties: KJ Bolden (Georgia), Koi Perich (Minnesota), Zechariah Poyser (Jacksonville State)
Specialists (5 players):
Kicker: Nolan Hauser (Clemson)
Punter: Rhys Dakin (Iowa)
Williams’ selection as an FWAA freshman All-American serves as a testament to his hard work, talent, and impact during his first season with the Crimson Tide. His achievements on the field have set the stage for what promises to be an exceptional collegiate career. As one of the key contributors to Alabama’s success in 2024, Williams has not only established himself as a rising star in college football but also as a role model for young athletes aspiring to reach the highest levels of the sport.
