FOOTBALL: QB Demond Williams Jr. staying at Washington after portal stir

Demond Williams Jr. has changed his mind—again.

The quarterback announced Thursday that he will no longer enter the transfer portal and will remain at the University of Washington.

The reversal comes after a whirlwind week for Williams. Last week, he signed an NIL deal reportedly worth around $4 million to stay with the Huskies. On Tuesday, however, he told his social media followers that he planned to enter the portal, with reports linking him to a potential move to LSU.

Washington appeared to push back, with a deputy athletic director telling the Seattle Times on Wednesday that the university would "pursue all legal avenues to protect our institution" in response to inquiries about Williams.

Adding to the drama, Williams’ former agent, Doug Hendrickson, announced Thursday that he was parting ways with his client "due to philosophical differences." Later the same day, Williams revealed his decision to stay.

"After thoughtful reflection with my family, I am excited to announce that I will continue my football journey at the University of Washington," Williams wrote on social media. "I am deeply grateful to my coaches, teammates, and everyone in the program for fostering an environment where I can thrive both as an athlete and as an individual. I am fully committed and focused on contributing to what we are building."

Williams started all 13 games as a sophomore last season, leading the Huskies to a 9-4 record, including a 38-10 win over Boise State in the LA Bowl on Dec. 13. He went 15 of 24 for 215 yards and four touchdowns in that game.

For the season, Williams completed 246 of 354 passes (69.5%) for 3,065 yards, 25 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He also rushed for 611 yards—second on the team—and six touchdowns.

Across his Washington career, Williams has completed 71.5% of his passes for 4,009 yards, 33 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 26 games (2024–25). He has also rushed for 893 yards and eight touchdowns.

—Field Level Media/Reuters