Washington says quarterback Demond Williams Jr. Remains bound by a revenue-share agreement the school considers legally enforceable, and is prepared to explore legal avenues after Williams reversed course and announced he would enter the NCAA transfer portal just days after signing the deal.
A Washington source confirmed to The Athletic that Williams signed a contract Jan. 2, agreeing to return for his junior season.
On Tuesday night, Williams posted on Instagram that transferring was “best for me and my future.” A program source said the school has no plans to release him from what it describes as a “legally binding” agreement.
As of Wednesday, Williams had not filed paperwork with compliance officials to place his name in the portal. Washington is considering its options, adding another test case to the evolving and unsettled intersection of NIL, revenue sharing and transfer freedom.LSU is reportedly planning to make a run at Williams.
Previous examples with breach of contract
Recent disputes are prime examples of the uncertainty. Wisconsin objected when cornerback Xavier Lucas transferred to the Miami Hurricanes, citing a binding NIL agreement. Georgia Bulldogs is also seeking damages from former defensive end Damon Wilson II after his move to the Missouri Tigers.
Williams followed coach Jedd Fisch to Seattle two years ago, and the two share the same agent at Wasserman. Before Arizona and Washington, Williams originally committed to the Ole Miss Rebels under Lane Kiffin and could be headed to LSU.
More: Nick Saban issued a clear warning to Curt Cignetti when he left Alabama
Williams threw for 4,009 yards and 33 touchdowns in 26 career games, adding 893 rushing yards. His four touchdowns in Washington’s LA Bowl win over the Boise State Broncos and All-Big Ten honorable mention after his first season as the starter makes him an attractive option. According to ESPN, Williams is entering the portal with a do-not-contact tag, which points to a likely destination.
Washington reached the 2023 national title game under Kalen DeBoer and is 15-11 in two seasons under Fisch. Losing Williams would be a significant blow and one that may now be decided beyond the field.
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