Story by
The Tuscaloosa News
Expanded role for Alabama football WR Ryan Williams? Kalen DeBoer hints at it
- Story byThe Tuscaloosa News
- Expanded role for Alabama football WR Ryan Williams? Kalen DeBoer hints at it
After leading Alabama football in multiple receiving categories as a true freshman last year, Ryan Williams returns in 2025 as one of the Crimson Tide's most dynamic athletes. He'll again be Alabama 's primary threat when it comes to downfield explosiveness.
But he might do it from a little different look from a formation standpoint.
Advertisement
UA coach Kalen DeBoer suggested Tuesday that Williams could see more action in the slot position, rather than an an outside receiver, which was his main role in 2024.
SPRINGING BACK: 6 questions heading into Week 2 of Alabama football 2025 spring practice
HOLLYWOOD'S BRACKET: Who does Ryan Williams have winning March Madness? What Alabama football WR said
"Bringing in an Isaiah Horton (from the transfer portal), and having more length on the outside now with Jalen Hale too, has allowed Ryan to move around to different spots," DeBoer said as UA continued its spring practice. "Between he and Germ (Bernard), and I think Isaiah could play (in the slot), maybe not in the slot all the time, but these guys are versatile."
Advertisement
The slot role could lend itself to more touches for Williams, although pass routes tend to be shorter there. That's worth consideration for new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, given that Williams proved to be an outstanding deep threat on the outside last year. In all likelihood, Williams could end up seeing plenty of action at both spots, but in the slot, he could be especially effective as an immediate target in third-and-short situations.
Last season, Williams caught 48 passes for team highs in receiving yards (865) and receiving touchdowns (eight).
As for other slot candidates, DeBoer said veteran Cole Adams is "easing into things," coming off a season-ending injury last year. He also noted that incoming freshman Lotzeir Brooks has primarily practiced in the slot this spring, as well.
"The slot is definitely (Adams') spot, where he feels most comfortable. He's always, when I talk about quarterback-friendly, he's that guy that is friendly with the quarterback, in the right place, the heady guy who will make the catches that are there for him, be consistent that way," DeBoer said.
Advertisement
Alabama will conclude spring practice with A-Day on April 12.
Reach Tuscaloosa News columnist Chase Goodbread at cgoodbread@gannett.com. Follow on X @chasegoodbread.
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Expanded role for Alabama football's Ryan Williams? DeBoer hints at it
