After days of drama — and possible legal action — Demond Williams Jr. will be returning to Washington.
Despite declaring for the transfer portal on Tuesday in a move that sent shockwaves around college football, Williams now intends to return to the Huskies for next season, the quarterback posted on social media Thursday.
“After thoughtful reflection with my family, I am excited to announce that I will continue my football journey at the University of Washington,” Williams wrote on Instagram. “I am deeply grateful to my coaches, teammates, and everyone in the program for fostering an environment where I can thrive both as an athlete and as an individual.”
“I am fully committed and focused on contributing to what we are building,” he added.
Washington head coach Jedd Fisch said he still supports Williams despite the prolonged drama.
“Over the last few days, Demond and I have engaged in very honest and heartfelt conversations about his present and future. We both agree that the University of Washington is the best place for him to continue his academic, athletic, and social development,” Fisch said in a statement. “I appreciate Demond’s statement, I support him, and we will work together to begin the process of repairing relationships and regaining the trust of the Husky community.”
The deal that Williams signed for the 2026 season is reportedly “in the mid-$4 million range,” ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Thursday.
Williams’ decision comes just days after the 19-year-old announced that he intended to transfer, despite previously signing a contract with Washington.
He announced in an Instagram post that he intended to enter the portal just days after agreeing to a deal to return to Washington. ESPN reported that Washington might have pursued legal action in the event he transferred.
In that earlier post, Williams thanked his teammates, coaches and the Washington fans, but said he had to do what would be best for his career.
“I have to do what is best for me and my future,” he wrote. “After much thought and prayer, I will be entering the transfer portal.”
The Athletic reported that Williams also failed to file the necessary paperwork with the Huskies regarding his plans to transfer before he posted on social media that he intended to enter the portal.
Following Williams’ initial decision to transfer, his agent, Doug Hendrickson, dropped the quarterback, citing “philosophical differences.”
“I have made the decision to end my representation of Demond Williams Jr. effective immediately due to philosophical differences,” Hendrickson posted to social media on Thursday. “Demond is an incredible talent and we wish him and his family the best in their future endeavors.”
Williams’ transfer drama comes after the sophomore had an impressive campaign for the Huskies, throwing for 3,065 yards — completing his passes at a 69.3 percent clip — with 25 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
