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Demond Williams Jr., a college football player who sparked controversy by entering the transfer portal just days after signing a lucrative name, image and likeness deal with Washington, announced Thursday night that he will remain with the Huskies. The abrupt turnaround comes amid reports that the university was evaluating its legal options to enforce the contract.
Williams, 19, signed a no-deal on Jan. 2 to remain Washington’s quarterback for the 2026 season, a contract reportedly valued at around $4 million. A few days later — the same day as the memorial service for Washington soccer player Mia Hamant, who died in November after a long battle with kidney cancer — Williams announced her intention to enter the transfer portal.
Demond Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies arrives for the game against the Oregon Ducks at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Blake Dahlin/ISI Photos/ISI Photos)
The decision and timing of Williams’ announcement was met with both shock and backlash.
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The fallout from that announcement led Williams’ agent, Doug Hendrickson, to drop the quarterback, citing “philosophical differences.” Williams then retained Florida-based attorney Darren Heitner amid reports that the university was considering legal action to enforce the contract.
But in a shocking turnaround, Williams released a statement Thursday confirming he would remain in Washington.
“After careful consideration with my family, I am thrilled to announce that I will continue my football journey at the University of Washington. I am deeply grateful to my coaches, my teammates and everyone involved in the program for fostering an environment in which I can thrive both as an athlete and as an individual,” read his statement posted on social media.
“I am fully engaged and focused on contributing to what we are building.”
Demond Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies celebrates a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks during the second half at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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Williams also apologized that his initial announcement “coincided with the celebration of the life of Mia Hamant, a beloved member of our university community. It was never my intention to distract from such an important moment.”
In his statement, head coach Jedd Fisch acknowledged the tension caused by the situation and said the program would work with Williams to repair relationships and rebuild trust within the Husky community.
“Over the past few days, Demond and I have had 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,” he said in a statement provided by the university.
Demond Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies passes against the Oregon Ducks during the first half at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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“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.”
Williams is a dual-threat quarterback who has totaled 3,065 yards with 25 touchdowns and eight interceptions, while totaling 611 yards and six scores during his second season in Washington.
