ej williams has one last chance to reach his potential at iu — and both sides need each other more than ever
ej williams’ college football journey has been anything but straightforward. once a four-star recruit out of phenix city, alabama, and a standout at clemson, williams was once projected to be the next great wide receiver in the acc. but after injuries, inconsistent play, and a lack of opportunity, he’s now found himself at indiana university — likely his final stop — in a last-ditch effort to revive the promise that once surrounded his name.
for indiana, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. new head coach curt cignetti, fresh off his success at james madison, is looking to spark a quick turnaround in bloomington. he needs veteran playmakers to bring credibility and production to his offense. williams offers both — if he can stay healthy and focused.
the clemson chapter: potential left on the table
williams burst onto the scene at clemson as a freshman in 2020, flashing potential with 24 receptions for 306 yards and 2 touchdowns. he seemed poised to be a go-to target in the years to come. but injuries and depth-chart battles derailed his sophomore and junior campaigns. by the time he transferred to indiana in 2023, he was more of a question mark than an answer.
he played sparingly in 2023 due to nagging injuries and struggled to find chemistry in a chaotic offensive system. but now, with a full offseason under a new coaching staff, williams is healthy and motivated. and he knows time is running out.
the opportunity at indiana: mutual urgency
iu’s wide receiver room is in flux. williams offers a rare blend of size, experience, and untapped potential that could set him apart. he stands 6’3″, has solid hands, and can stretch the field when he’s locked in. indiana desperately needs that kind of player.
coach cignetti has praised williams’ work ethic and leadership in spring practices. and sources close to the program say he’s become one of the most vocal veterans in the locker room — a sign that he knows what’s at stake.
for williams, this is more than just a transfer or a final season — it’s a personal mission to prove he still belongs. for indiana, it’s a chance to steal production from a player who was once recruited by powerhouse programs across the country.
both sides need each other
the relationship is one of mutual desperation. williams needs a breakout season to salvage his nfl hopes. indiana needs explosive weapons to climb out of the big ten basement. if they can get the best from each other, it could be one of the best underdog stories of the 2025 college football season.
but there are no guarantees. williams will have to earn his snaps, stay healthy, and deliver when it counts. for now, the potential is there — and this may be the final chance to turn it into something real.
