The Demond Williams dispute took another dramatic turn this week. Just days after reports surfaced that the Washington quarterback was attempting to exit a lucrative NIL agreement with the Huskies, he lost his representation.
Doug Hendrickson, president of Wasserman Football, announced on social media that he had dropped Demond Williams Jr. As a client. He cited “philosophical differences” in a brief statement and confirmed the decision was effective immediately. Hendrickson offered no additional detail while wishing Williams and his family well in their ongoing dispute. Shortly after, prominent NIL attorney Darren Heitner confirmed he has taken on Williams as a client.
The move comes amid a rapidly escalating dispute between Williams and Washington Huskies officials. According to Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports, Williams signed a one-year, $4 million revenue-sharing agreement with Washington on Jan. 2.
More in this thread from yesterday on the situation with Demond Williams, who has retained noted attorney Darren Heitner, who also handled a similar case with Xavier Lucas last year moving from Wisconsin to Miami https://t.co/0DGS44H9i3
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) January 8, 2026
The was signed with a Big Ten Conference-approved template that prohibits portal entry. When Williams’ announced his intent to enter the portal four days later, Washington declined to submit his name, effectively blocking contact with other programs. A rare but justified move considering the language in the contract.
Washington officials believe Williams may have already spoken with other programs and are prepared to submit evidence of tampering. LSU is widely viewed as the most interested suitor.
How Williams’ new legal representation affects the standoff remains unclear, but the case is rapidly becoming a defining test for revenue-sharing contracts in college football.
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