Alabama freshman Ryan Williams shines as youngest player in college football ahead of ReliaQuest Bowl

Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams, just 17 years old, has had a standout freshman season. He has 45 receptions for 857 yards and eight touchdowns, making him one of the top freshmen in college football. Williams, born on February 9, 2007, is the youngest player in college football this season. He reclassified from the 2025 recruiting class to 2024, allowing him to play this year. He gained national attention during a game against Georgia, where he had six receptions for 177 yards and a game-winning touchdown. Williams will turn 18 in February and will be eligible for the NFL Draft when he turns 19.