Demond Williams transfer portal controversy, explained: Why Washington is blocking QB from leaving recent contract

Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams, coming off a 31-total-touchdown season in the Big Ten as a sophomore, announced Tuesday that he would be entering the transfer portal. 

In 2026, that's almost become the norm for big-name college quarterbacks. Plenty of star passers, from Dylan Raiola to DJ Lagway, made exits from their schools this college football offseason. But in Williams' case, his announced decision sparked controversy.

Just days before Williams' transfer announcement, he had reportedly agreed to return to the Huskies for the 2026 season, signing a contract to do so. And in response to his attempted exit, Washington is "prepared to pursue all legal avenues" if Williams is not living up to that deal.

Here's everything to know about Demond Williams' transfer portal controversy.

MORE: Tracking the QBs on the move in the transfer portal

Demond Williams transfer portal controversy

Williams, who spent the first two seasons of his career at Washington and excelled as a sophomore starter in 2025, shared an Instagram post on Tuesday announcing he'd be entering the transfer portal.

"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 problem, however, was that Williams had already signed a contract to return to the Huskies last week, per ESPN's Pete Thamel. The deal was reportedly considered "top of the market," and Thamel also added that Williams entered the portal with a "do not contact" tag, meaning he likely already had a destination in mind.

According to Thamel, Washington is now "prepared to pursue all legal avenues to enforce Williams' signed contract," and the quarterback's situation has also "drawn the attention of the Big Ten."

Ross Dellenger also reported that Washington officials "suspect" that another school contacted Williams after he had already signed his Huskies deal. In response, Washington reportedly plans to submit evidence of tampering.

According to Matt Zenitz, LSU, which is still eyeing a quarterback after landing Lane Kiffin, is expected to be the "team to watch" for Williams if he's able to transfer.

MORE: How Lane Kiffin's transfer portal acquisitions at LSU have started roughly

Demond Williams contract

While full details of the contract aren't known, Demond Williams had reportedly agreed to a deal with Washington days before he announced he would be entering the transfer portal.

Pete Thamel reported that the contract had been "top of the market," while Ross Dellenger reported that Washington officials described the contract as "a legally binding revenue-share contract with the school."

Demond Williams stats

Here's a look at Williams' numbers through two seasons at Washington.

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